F-1 to H-1B Transitions Exempt from $100K Fee

The U.S. government recently announced a huge increase in the H-1B visa fee from a few thousand dollars to $100,000. This sudden jump caused panic among employers and international students who plan to work in the U.S. after their studies.

However, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has now clarified that this new fee will NOT apply to certain people, especially international students (F-1 visa holders) already in the U.S. who are changing their visa status to H-1B (the skilled worker visa).

🔍 What Does This Mean?

• If you are an F-1 student in the U.S. and later get a job and apply for an H-1B visa, you don’t have to pay the $100,000 fee.
• The fee only applies to new H-1B petitions filed for people outside the U.S. after September 21, 2025.
• Those who are extending, amending, or changing their visa status inside the U.S. are also exempt.
• Even if you travel abroad with an approved H-1B visa and return, you will not be charged the fee again.

💬 Why Is This Important?

This clarification brings relief to thousands of international students who study in the U.S. and plan to work there afterward. Many feared they would face massive financial hurdles when applying for the H-1B visa.

The U.S. government faced heavy criticism from employers, universities, and immigration groups who said the $100K fee could:

• Reduce international talent coming to the U.S.
• Hurt U.S. businesses that depend on skilled workers.
• Damage research, technology, and innovation sectors.

⚖Legal Challenges and Reforms

• The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other organizations are suing the government, saying the fee is unconstitutional.
• The government is also considering reforms to the H-1B system to favor higher-paid, highly skilled workers which could make it harder for fresh graduates to get H-1B visas in the future.

🎓 What It Means for Students

If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa and plan to move to an H-1B job, you’re safe from the $100K fee.
You can still complete your Optional Practical Training (OPT) and then apply for H-1B without extra cost.

This decision gives students more confidence to pursue studies and careers in the U.S.

📞For More Information & Guidance
🎓Need help understanding your U.S. study or visa options?
Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way!

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