The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated guidance on the $100,000 H-1B fee imposed by President Trump’s September 19 proclamation. The fee applies to new H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025, for beneficiaries outside the US without a valid H-1B visa.

Key Points:
– Exemptions: Current H-1B holders, petitions filed before September 21, 2025, and amendments or extensions of stay for beneficiaries inside the US are exempt.
– Payment Process: Employers must pay the fee via (link unavailable) before filing the H-1B petition.
– Exceptions: Rare exceptions may be granted by the Secretary of Homeland Security for national interest cases.

This clarification provides relief for existing H-1B holders, including international graduates changing to H-1B status within the US