President Trump Issues Executive Order Requiring H-1B Workers To Pay US$100,000 Fee

In a series of Presidential Executive Orders (EOs) that were released on September 19, 2025, President Trump issued an EO restricting anyone seeking to enter or re-enter the US on H-1B status without a payment of a US$100,000 fee. Over the weekend, social media posts and statements have been published by the White House further clarifying how the proclamation will be implemented for "new," rather than existing, H-1B petitions.

Who does this Proclamation affect?

The Proclamation targets entry of H-1B workers into the United States who are currently outside the United States pursuant to INA212(f). It restricts H-1B workers who attempt to re-enter the United States after September 21, 2025, as they will be unable to return to the United States unless and/or until they pay the US$100,000 fee.