The Proposal That’s Stirring Global Debate
A recent proposal linked to former President Donald Trump is making waves across the immigration, tech, and global business sectors: a $100,000 filing fee for H-1B visa applications — a dramatic leap from the current $215 registration cost.
While the proposal has not yet been codified into law, its potential implications are too significant to ignore.
What Is the H-1B Visa and Why Does It Matter?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ foreign professionals in specialized roles, such as tech, finance, healthcare, and engineering. It is especially vital in sectors where domestic skill shortages persist.
From $215 → $100,000: A Radical Shift
If implemented, the proposed fee structure would mark the most aggressive cost escalation in the H-1B program’s history.
| Category | Current System | Proposed Overhaul |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Registration Fee | $215 | $100,000 per petition |
| Prevailing Wage Requirement | Industry Standard | Stricter thresholds |
| Oversight | Periodic Audits | Enhanced Investigations |
The scale of this jump is intended to deter abuse of the H-1B system, but experts warn it may cripple legitimate global hiring pipelines and dampen innovation.
Key Implications
1. Employer Burden
- Startups and mid-sized companies may struggle to justify these costs.
- Staffing agencies and consulting firms would face pricing model overhauls.
- Could lead to increased outsourcing or reduced U.S.-based hiring altogether.
2. Global Talent Flow
- International professionals may divert to countries with friendlier immigration systems (Canada, Australia, UK).
- Talented graduates from U.S. universities may feel blocked from long-term employment in the country.
3. Impact on Innovation
- The U.S. has long depended on foreign-born innovators to drive progress in AI, cybersecurity, biotech, and more.
- A restricted H-1B program may erode America’s leadership in critical tech sectors.
What Should Employers Do?
Regardless of whether this proposal moves forward in its current form, the message is clear:
U.S. immigration policy is evolving — fast.
Employers need to be proactive, compliant, and strategic.
✅ Reassess global hiring plans
✅ Partner with compliance-oriented immigration experts
✅ Prepare alternate talent sourcing options
✅ Review internal visa sponsorship budgets
How iGlobal Services Can Help
At iGlobal Services, we support hundreds of companies in navigating the shifting landscape of immigration and staffing.
Whether you’re:
- Hiring your first H-1B talent
- Rebuilding your global hiring strategy
- Or simply need clarity on how these changes may affect you…
Our experts are here to help.
Get Strategic. Stay Compliant. Hire Smart.
Contact us today to book a free consultation
www.iGlobalServices.com
iGlobal Services
Immigration & Staffing Experts for the Global Workforce
