On September 19, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a Proclamation titled ‘Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,’ which represents a notable change in the H-1B visa program. Effective September 21, 2025, this proclamation mandates a $100,000 fee with all new H-1B visa petitions, including those submitted for the 2026 lottery. The proclamation clarifies that it does not impact previously issued visas or petitions filed before the effective date, nor does it alter fees for H-1B renewals or limit travel for current visa holders to and from the United States.

In addition to the new fee, further reforms are planned to enhance the H-1B program by increasing prevailing wage levels and prioritizing high-skilled, well-paid workers in the visa lottery. The Department of Labor is expected to issue a rulemaking to revise wage levels, ensuring that the program attracts top talent. The Department of Homeland Security will also implement changes to prioritize applicants based on their wage levels, fostering a more skilled workforce within the program.

The White House has indicated that additional reforms will be considered and announced in the upcoming months as part of a broader initiative to protect American workers and improve the integrity of the H-1B program. This effort reflects ongoing discussions regarding the balance between immigration, labor needs, and the protection of domestic jobs. Overall, the proclamation signals a policy shift aimed at reforming the visa program to address potential abuses and better serve the interests of American workers.

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