By South Matters World Desk | World Affairs
A federal court in the United States has struck down the controversial H-1B Visa Fee Rule that required employers to pay $100,000 for new H-1B visa applications.
The ruling marks a major setback for the Trump administration’s immigration policy and brings relief to industries that rely heavily on skilled foreign workers.
Court Calls Fee Unlawful
Judge Leo Sorokin ruled that the $100,000 charge functioned as a tax rather than a regulatory fee.
Therefore, the court concluded that the Department of Homeland Security exceeded its legal authority when it introduced the policy.
The judge stated that changing immigration costs on such a scale required congressional approval rather than executive action.
Policy Faced Strong Opposition
The Trump administration introduced the rule in September 2025.
Officials argued that the measure would encourage employers to hire more American workers and reduce dependence on foreign labor.
However, state governments, business groups, universities, hospitals, and healthcare organizations strongly opposed the policy.
Critics warned that the fee would make it difficult to recruit skilled professionals from abroad.
Healthcare Sector Raised Concerns
Healthcare organizations emerged among the strongest opponents of the policy.
Many hospitals depend on foreign-trained doctors, nurses, and specialists, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Industry groups argued that the fee could worsen staffing shortages and reduce access to medical care.
As a result, several healthcare associations joined legal challenges against the rule.
Impact on H-1B Program
Before the policy took effect, employers typically paid between $2,000 and $3,500 in fees for H-1B visa applications.
The sudden jump to $100,000 created concerns across multiple sectors, including technology, education, research, and healthcare.
According to court filings, approximately 8,500 H-1B visas went to healthcare and medical workers during the 2024 fiscal year.
Administration May Appeal
The Trump administration is expected to appeal the ruling.
For now, however, the court’s decision blocks enforcement of the fee requirement and restores the previous fee structure for employers seeking H-1B visas.
The decision is likely to have significant implications for immigration policy and workforce planning across the United States.