President Donald Trump&rsquo;s proposal to introduce a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications has sparked legal backlash from the US Chamber of Commerce, one of the nation&rsquo;s largest business groups.
The Chamber filed a lawsuit against the Departments of Homeland Security and State, claiming the new fee would damage small and mid-sized companies that rely on skilled foreign workers. The group argued that the administration&rsquo;s move violates federal law and exceeds presidential authority, as such changes require Congressional approval.
Business leaders warned that the steep charge could make it nearly impossible for smaller firms and startups to hire global talent, potentially slowing innovation and job creation in critical industries like technology, healthcare, and research. They emphasised that the H-1B visa program was designed to help U.S. companies access expertise unavailable domestically and fuel economic growth.
While the Chamber criticised the visa fee policy, it acknowledged Trump&rsquo;s focus on border security and expressed willingness to work on comprehensive immigration reforms with Congress.
Immigration experts note that the proposed $100,000 fee has not yet been implemented in the ongoing H-1B application cycle, but concerns over its economic impact continue to rise.

US Chamber of Commerce sues Trump administration over new $100K H-1B visa fee plan

Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee Faces Lawsuit

US Chamber of Commerce sues Trump administration over new $100K H-1B visa fee plan

October 17, 2025 | 14:24 IST