The $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee: A Barrier for Small Businesses and Startups

Fri Oct 10 2025 11:48:44 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Small businesses and startups are facing significant challenges due to the newly proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, set forth by the Trump administration. This fee could hinder innovation and hiring in various sectors, complicating the workforce landscape.

The Trump administration's recent executive order mandating a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications raises concerns among small firms and startups that rely on foreign skilled labor. Business leaders warn that this fee could cripple hiring capabilities, exacerbate workforce shortages, and stifle innovation across multiple industries, including tech, healthcare, and education.

When US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to add a $100,000 fee for applications for H-1B visas, Abhishek Singh, a software engineering manager, felt immediate concern for both his employment and the future of his startup. Having worked in the US on an H-1B visa for years, he knew his company would struggle to absorb such a costly fee.

The White House later clarified that the fee would only apply to new applicants, providing a brief reprieve for individuals currently employed. Despite this, the order poses serious questions about its impact on small businesses and innovation within the tech sector and beyond.

While large companies like Amazon and Microsoft frequently utilize the H-1B visa program, the new fee could prove devastating for smaller firms that cannot afford such a burden. Karen Brady, CEO of a behavioral health nonprofit, expressed that it would prevent them from hiring foreign skilled workers even when they are vital for serving diverse populations.

Economists warn that this move could lead to a brain drain, pushing skilled professionals overseas and potentially reducing US productivity. Critics argue that the new policy could encourage businesses to offshore their operations rather than hire US workers at competitive skill levels.

Startups and smaller firms in various sectors could face significant hurdles in recruiting talent, potentially stalling innovation at a critical time. As firms adjust to these changes, many like Singh are left contemplating their futures, with thoughts of relocating if conditions do not improve.