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Universities Sue Over Controversial $100K H-1B Fee

10/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Higher education groups filed a lawsuit against the $100,000 H-1B fee, arguing it could impact research and foreign-worker employment in the United States.
The suit argues the fee exceeds presidential authority, violates Congress's budget powers, and acts as a 'tax' on universities.
Plaintiffs include American Association of University Professors, seeking to declare the fee unlawful and restore prior H-1B processing.

History

Historical Context

The H-1B visa program, established by the Immigration Act of 1990, allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. In 2025, a controversial $100,000 fee was introduced, prompting a lawsuit from the American Association of University Professors, which argues this fee threatens research funding and employment opportunities, reflecting ongoing tensions between federal immigration policies and educational institutions.

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Story summary

Higher education groups filed a lawsuit against the $100,000 H-1B fee, arguing it could impact research and foreign-worker employment in the United States.
The suit argues the fee exceeds presidential authority, violates Congress's budget powers, and acts as a 'tax' on universities.
Plaintiffs include American Association of University Professors, seeking to declare the fee unlawful and restore prior H-1B processing.

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