Trump Administration Plans Major H-1B Visa Overhaul: Stricter Rules, Higher Fees on the Horizon

Trump Administration Targets Major H-1B Visa Overhaul

In a major policy shake-up, the Donald Trump administration is preparing to introduce sweeping changes to the H-1B visa programme, including a $100,000 mandatory fee and tighter eligibility norms for both employers and foreign professionals.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has outlined the proposed reforms under a rule titled 'Reforming the H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Classification Program’ in the Federal Register.

The proposed regulations seek to revise eligibility for cap exemptions, increase oversight on third-party placements, and scrutinise employers with past compliance violations, among other measures.

What May Change

While details remain under review, reports suggest that the DHS may also reconsider which employers qualify for cap exemptions, potentially affecting universities, nonprofit research bodies, and healthcare institutions that currently enjoy special status.

“These changes are intended to improve the integrity of the H-1B nonimmigrant program and better protect U.S. workers’ wages and working conditions,” the proposal stated.