The United States is preparing for significant reforms in the H-1B visa process before the new fee structure takes effect in February 2026. The Trump-led administration has introduced a $100,000 annual fee for fresh H-1B petitions and renewals, although existing visa holders remain exempt.
US officials have indicated that the current lottery-based system, which has often been criticised as outdated and unfair, is likely to be restructured. The aim is to prioritise highly skilled and highly paid professionals over low-cost tech consultants who currently dominate the program.
The H-1B system, established in 1990, has become oversubscribed, with technology consultants accounting for nearly three-fourths of the visas. Policymakers now believe that only top-tier talent in fields such as medicine, education, and advanced engineering should qualify under the revised system.
To address misuse of the program, the US Department of Labour has launched &lsquo;Project Firewall,&rsquo; a nationwide initiative targeting fraud and ensuring employers prioritise American workers. The enforcement drive will monitor compliance, safeguard wages, and protect job opportunities for US citizens while holding employers accountable for abuses.
As the 2026 deadline approaches, further adjustments to the H-1B visa process are expected, focusing on ensuring the system serves the nation&rsquo;s long-term economic and workforce priorities.

H-1B visa process overhaul and $100,000 fee expected from February 2026 under Trump policy

US Plans Major Changes in H-1B Visa by 2026

H-1B visa process overhaul and $100,000 fee expected from February 2026 under Trump policy

September 30, 2025 | 12:19 IST