H-1B $100,000 Fee 2026 — What It Means for Indian Workers

The $100,000 H-1B Fee — What Happened?

On September 19, 2025, a Presidential Proclamation imposed a $100,000 fee on all new H-1B visa petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025. This is in addition to the existing base filing fees. The fee is technically paid by the employer — but many companies are now reconsidering H-1B sponsorship for new hires as a result.

What This Means for Indian IT Workers

For Indian software engineers, data scientists and IT professionals currently in India hoping to get H-1B sponsorship from a US employer — the $100,000 fee makes this significantly harder. Many mid-size employers who previously sponsored H-1Bs are now pausing hiring of visa-dependent candidates.

What Existing H-1B Holders Should Do

• Renew/extend your H-1B immediately — extensions are not affected by the new fee
• Apply for EB-1A (extraordinary ability) — no employer needed, often current even for India
• Start a Canada PR application in parallel — Express Entry takes 6–18 months and there is no equivalent fee
• Consider EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) — self-petition, no employer sponsorship needed

Canada — The Smart Parallel Track

Most Indian H-1B holders qualify for Canada Express Entry. A software engineer with 5+ years experience, IELTS 7.0+, and a Master's degree can have a CRS score of 450–490. With a PNP nomination (BC Tech, Ontario Tech), an ITA comes within months. Getting Canada PR while on H-1B gives you a permanent safety net.