What Trump’s $100K H-1B Fee Means for Tech Workers — Steps to Protect Your Job

Summary President Trump signed a presidential proclamation that imposes a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B petitions for workers outside the U.S. (with limited national-interest exemptions), part of a sweeping set of immigration changes announced Sept. 19–20, 2025. The move is already generating immediate operational fallout — major employers are scrambling to advise employees, industry groups warn of disruption, and legal challenges are expected. If you’re an H-1B worker (or sponsoring manager), act now: confirm your status with your employer, consult immigration counsel, avoid non-essential travel, and gather key documents. Quick snapshot — what this change does The White House proclamation conditions entry for many H-1B workers on an employer-paid $100,000 fee (with possible case-by-case national interest exemptions). The White House Implementation moved very quickly; some firms instructed H-1B staff to remain in or return to the U.S. while they seek clarity. Expect immediate ope...