US Plans $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Sparks Tech Industry Concerns

President Donald Trump's recent executive order imposes a $100,000 fee on all new H-1B visa petitions starting September 2025, aiming to protect American jobs but causing significant concern in the tech industry. This steep increase is particularly challenging for early-stage startups, as highlighted by Arko C, founder of Pipeshift, who delayed hiring a talented engineer from India due to the prohibitive costs, describing the policy as "collateral damage" for smaller companies. Tech leaders like Box CEO Aaron Levie warn the fee hike will advantage large corporations over startups, potentially driving skilled international talent to bigger companies or pushing innovation overseas. While some argue the policy will prioritize highly skilled workers and protect American wages, experts including Stuart Anderson of the National Foundation for American Policy caution it could stifle innovation and harm the U.S. tech economy. The policy change raises fears of long-term damage to America's talent pipeline, as entrepreneurs and prospective employees reconsider their options amid the new barriers. The debate underscores broader concerns about maintaining U.S. competitiveness in attracting global talent, especially in AI and technology sectors.