Trump Administration Announces $100K H‑1B Surcharge, $250 Fee

The Trump administration announced a $100,000 surcharge on each new H‑1B petition in a September proclamation taking effect for filings after mid‑September and also introduced a $250 non‑immigrant “Visa Integrity Fee.” The policy is billed as a way to curb systemic abuse and prioritize highly skilled workers, but officials and immigration attorneys say key details remain unclear — including who must pay and how funds will be used — creating budgeting uncertainty for the 2026 H‑1B cycle. Estimates suggest exposure for large tech firms would be substantial (for example, Motley Fool estimated Amazon would have faced roughly $172.6 million for new FY2025 petitions under a $100k charge), and the announcement has prompted market reactions and strategic reassessments by multinational firms. Healthcare leaders warn the surcharge would worsen shortages of doctors, specialized IT staff and researchers, strain recruitment at hospitals and research centers, and push institutions toward offshore hiring or alternatives. Observers say the move risks driving STEM talent and investment overseas and could advantage countries rolling out competing visas, such as China’s new K visa.