Why does Trump want employers to pay $103,265 for H-1B visas?

President Donald Trump is proposing an additional $103,265 fee on every H-1B cap-subject petition, which would be paid by employers when filing the petition. This is Trump's second attempt to impose a six-figure charge on H-1B workers, with a previous attempt struck down by a federal judge in June. The proposed fee would apply to cap-subject H-1B petitions, including those eligible for the advanced-degree exemption, and could disproportionately impact Indian professionals who make up 71% of approved H-1B petitions in FY2024.

Critics argue that the fee would weaken the bargaining position of both visa holders and US workers, while supporters claim it would ensure that only highly valuable workers are sponsored. The proposal is currently open for public comment until September 24, after which the Department of Homeland Security would consider the feedback before issuing a final rule.