US limits sweep of $100k H-1B visa fee

Latest clarification comes as a major relief for students and tech workers

- BY LEKSHMY PAVITHRAN Assistant Online Editor

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified that the proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee will not apply to current visa holders, extensions, or change of status applications, offering a major relief to foreign workers and students.

According to the new guidelines, H-1B workers who switch from other visa categories, such as F-1 (student) or L-1 (intra~-company transfer), will not be subjected to the $100,000 fee.

USCIS confirmed that these workers can reenter the US on H-1B status without any penalties.