The new USD $100,000 H-1B visa fee: What it really means for international graduates
Worried about the new USD $100,000 H-1B visa fee? Here’s what it really means for international graduates, who pays it, and why your F-1 to H-1B path to a U.S. career remains open.
If you’ve seen the headlines and wondered whether this will affect your post-study work plans in the United States, here’s what we know so far — and what it means for you.
Here’s what’s actually happening, what’s not, and why this policy may not affect you as much as you think.
This guide breaks down the new rule from official sources, including the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the White House proclamation (September 2025), and analysis by Forbes contributor Stuart Anderson (20 October 2025).
Cutting through the noise
The new H-1B rule has caused quite a stir, but much of the discussion online mixes myth and fact. Let’s separate the two.
Myth 1: It’s an annual fee for six years
Fact: It’s a one-time USD $100,000 fee per new petition — not a recurring yearly charge. Employers will pay this once when submitting a new H-1B petition.
Myth 2: It affects everyone heading to the US now
Fact: The rule only applies to new H1B petitions filed on or after 21 September 2025 for foreign workers abroad. If you’re starting your studies in 2025, your H-1B application will usually come later — after completing your degree and any Optional Practical Training (OPT) period. Under current USCIS guidance, students already in the US changing status from F-1 to H-1B won’t trigger the new USD $100,000 fee.
The fee applies only when an employer files a new H-1B petition from outside the US — for example, if you leave the country after OPT and your employer submits a fresh application on your behalf. `
Myth 3: The US is closing its doors to international talent
Fact: The official guidance from USCIS and the White House emphasises quality over quantity. The fee is designed to encourage employers to file strong, well-qualified petitions — not to exclude international talent.
In fact, the US remains a global hub for expertise in management, engineering, healthcare and teaching — and continues to welcome skilled graduates from around the world.
Myth 4: The new fee applies to F-1 to H-1B visa conversions and transitions
Fact: It doesn’t. The latest USCIS alert (20 October 2025) confirms that the USD $100,000 fee is not payable when students change status from F-1 to H-1B within the US.
The charge only applies to new petitions filed by employers for candidates based outside the US — for example, if a student completes OPT, leaves the country, and an employer later submits a fresh H-1B petition abroad.
Who pays — and who doesn’t
You’re not affected if:
You’re already in the US on an F-1 visa and want to change your status to H-1B in the US.
You’re a current H-1B holder renewing or extending an existing visa.
The fee does apply if:
You’re an employer filing a new H-1B petition for a worker based outside the US.
The petition is filed on or after 21 September 2025 — payment must accompany the petition.
Petitions filed between 21 September 2025 and 21 September 2026 fall within scope.
Exemptions
Renewals, extensions or petitions filed before 21 September 2025 are excluded under current USCIS guidance (October 2025 update).
Why the US remains unmatched for higher-education investment
Despite the policy headlines, the US continues to lead the world in higher-education investment.OECD and NCES data show that:
The US spends hundreds of billions each year on universities, research and innovation.
It remains the #1 destination for international enrolments.
Public, private and industry funding create unmatched graduate-level opportunities.
That level of investment fuels innovation, job creation and global research output — one reason international graduates continue to see strong employability outcomes after studying in the US.
Sources: OECD Education at a Glance 2024; NCES Digest of Education Statistics.
What this means for international students
If you’re an international student considering a US degree — or currently studying there — here’s what to keep in mind:
You won’t pay this new H-1B fee yourself. It’s a one-time charge for employers filing new petitions for foreign workers outside the US. If you’re already in the US on an F-1 visa and later change your status to H-1B, you’re not affected — that transition is exempt under current USCIS guidance.
Timing matters. The change affects H1B petitions filed from September 2025 for foreign workers abroad.
Stay informed, not alarmed. USCIS updates its guidance frequently, and the details may evolve before most 2025–26 graduates apply.
Think long-term. Your education and career will outlast short-term policy shifts. Focus on programmes with strong employability, global networks and practical training pathways.
Build career capital. A US MBA or STEM degree can be a global signal of skill and credibility, opening doors in the US and worldwide.
How to stay prepared
Follow USCIS and your university’s international office for verified updates.
Keep documentation (I-20, transcripts, employment letters) well-organised for future visa steps.
Focus on building a strong post-study profile — experience, skills and professional networks still drive most visa outcomes.
If your employer sponsors your H-1B, confirm that they’re aware of and budgeting for the new one-time fee, if applicable.
The bigger picture: opportunity still awaits
The new H-1B rule is a policy adjustment, not a door closing. The US remains the world’s largest investor in education and research, home to many of the top-ranked universities and employers seeking global talent.
For international students, the best approach is to stay informed, plan ahead and choose programmes that strengthen your long-term career potential, wherever that takes you next.
Ready to take your next step?
If you’re planning to study in the US and looking for support to finance your education, check your eligibility for a Prodigy Finance international student loan today.
