Print Print Copy link to clipboard Copy link to clipboard Share on LinkedIn Share on LinkedIn ARTICLE · 24 OCTOBER 2025 USCIS Clarifies $100K H-1B Visa Fee: Who Is Exempt And Who Benefits Siri & Glimstad LLP Explore more from Siri & Glimstad LLP On September 19, 2025, President Donald J.
In a move that has likely sent ripples of joy through the ranks of highly skilled foreign workers, two federal judges have stepped in to block a proposed $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas. Yes, you heard that right—$100,000! That’s not just a casual fee; that’s more like a small down payment on a house, or a really fancy car. Who knew that getting a work visa could feel like purchasing a luxury item?
The latest ruling comes from U.S. District Judge Haywood Gilliam in Oakland, California. He decided that the agencies involved didn’t quite follow the proper rule-making procedures before they tried to implement this hefty fee. It seems like someone forgot to read the fine print—or maybe they just skipped the entire manual. Either way, Judge Gilliam’s ruling is a temporary victory for those who were facing the prospect of shelling out a small fortune just to work in the U.S.
This ruling follows a similar decision, which means it’s like a legal double whammy for the $100,000 fee. The judges are standing firm, sending a clear message that the rules must be followed, and that’s a good thing. After all, we don’t want to live in a world where bureaucratic agencies can just throw fees around like confetti at a parade, right?
For those unfamiliar, the H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Think of it as a way to bring in the best and brightest from around the globe—like a talent show, but instead of singing and dancing, it’s all about coding and engineering. But, with the proposed fee, it started to feel less like a talent show and more like an exclusive club where only the wealthy could gain entry.
The judges’ rulings are a significant setback for the Trump administration’s attempts to impose this fee, which many viewed as a way to deter foreign workers from coming to the United States. It’s almost as if they thought, “Let’s make it so expensive that only the elite can afford to work here.” But thankfully, the judges had other ideas.
Now, while this is a temporary win, it’s important to remember that legal battles can be long and drawn out. So, for now, H-1B visa seekers can breathe a little easier, but they should keep one eye on the news. You never know when another fee might pop up like an unwelcome surprise at a birthday party.
In conclusion, this ruling is a reminder that the legal system still has the power to challenge even the most questionable of fees. So, here’s to hoping that the future of the H-1B program remains accessible and fair—because nobody should have to choose between their career and a mortgage payment just to get a visa. Cheers to the judges who stood up for common sense and fairness, and let’s keep our fingers crossed for the future!
Inspired by: “Second judge blocks Trump’s $100,000 fee for new H-1B worker visas” (r/News)