Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's $100K H-1B Fee Hits Startups, Alters Hiring

10/2/2025

39 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Trump Imposes H-1B Fee

President Trump imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, effective Sept 21, 2025.
The fee disproportionately affects startups and small firms, risking offshore hiring or shifts to local talent.
Howard Lutnick, U.S. Commerce Secretary, says H-1B changes—including a lottery overhaul—are due before February 2026.
Amazon and Tata Consultancy are top H-1B recipients; the fee could complicate their hiring.

Summary

China Attracts STEM Talent

China launched its K-visa program on October 1, 2025 to attract global STEM talent amid U.S. visa restrictions.
The K-visa allows entry without employer sponsorship and offers long-term residency, contrasting with the U.S. H-1B visa fee of $100,000.
Analysts view it as a strategic move to attract talent, notably from India, which accounted for 71% of 2024 H-1B approvals.

History

Historical Context

Established by the U.S. Congress in 1990, the H-1B visa program aimed to attract skilled foreign workers, significantly benefiting the economy. By 2024, Indian nationals accounted for 71% of approvals. However, a new $100,000 application fee threatens startups, prompting China to introduce its K-visa program in 2025, potentially altering the competitive landscape for global STEM talent.

1 of 3

Trump Imposes H-1B Fee

President Trump imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, effective Sept 21, 2025.
The fee disproportionately affects startups and small firms, risking offshore hiring or shifts to local talent.
Howard Lutnick, U.S. Commerce Secretary, says H-1B changes—including a lottery overhaul—are due before February 2026.
Amazon and Tata Consultancy are top H-1B recipients; the fee could complicate their hiring.

1 / 3