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Big changes are coming to the H1B visa 2025 program, and they’ll impact both applicants and employers in a big way. The U.S. is rolling out a steep new fee along with an overhaul of the lottery process, completely changing how international professionals get a chance to work and live here. The goal is to give preference to workers with stronger skills and higher salaries.
New H1B Fee
U.S. companies planning to hire skilled foreign professionals through the H-1B program now face a dramatic added cost. A new $100,000 one-time fee, introduced by the Trump administration, must be paid for every new petition filed after September 21, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT. This mandate directly impacts the upcoming 2026 lottery and all subsequent applications, raising financial stakes for employers across industries.
This new fee does not apply to the following:
- Previously issued H-1B visas
- Petitions submitted before the September 21, 2025, deadline
- H-1B renewals or extensions
H1B Visa Validity Period
The standard validity period for an H1B visa remains the same. Foreign workers are initially granted a stay of up to three years. This can be extended for an additional three years, allowing for a total stay of six years. However, there is a new rule for individuals who have a controlling interest in the petitioning company. If you own more than 50 percent of the organization or hold majority voting rights, your initial petition and first extension will each be limited to 18 months.
Also Read: Worried About Trump’s Tough H-1B Policies? Follow These Strategies to Win
H1B Visa Lottery Changes
One of the most significant latest policy changes is the move away from a purely random lottery system. Until now, the 85,000 available H-1B visas were awarded through a random draw. The new proposal creates a “weighted” lottery that gives better odds to applicants with higher-paying job offers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) states this change is intended to discourage the use of the visa for lower-wage positions.
H1B Lottery Selection Process
The selection process will now be based on government-defined wage tiers, from Level 1 (entry-level) to Level 4 (highest expert-level). When filing, employers must specify the job’s Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, location, and the corresponding wage level based on US Department of Labor data.
If the number of registrations exceeds the available visas, USCIS will conduct a weighted lottery. This system assigns more entries to applicants in higher wage brackets, directly increasing their chances of selection.
- Level 4 (Highest Wage): Your name is entered four times.
- Level 3: Your name is entered three times.
- Level 2: Your name is entered twice.
- Level 1 (Lowest Wage): Your name is entered once.
Under the new system, candidates with a Level 4 salary will receive four opportunities in the lottery, compared with only one chance for entry-level workers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new H1B fee in 2025?
The Trump administration has introduced a one-time $100,000 fee for all new H1B visa petitions filed after September 21, 2025. This fee applies to the 2026 lottery and future new petitions. It does not apply to renewals, previously issued visas, or petitions submitted before the deadline.
How long is the H1B visa valid?
The standard validity is three years initially, with the option to extend for another three years, totaling six years. If you own more than 50% of the sponsoring company, your initial petition and first extension are limited to 18 months each.
How has the H1B lottery changed in 2025?
The lottery is now weighted based on salary. Higher-paying jobs give applicants a better chance of selection. This system replaces the purely random draw used in previous years.
What must employers provide when filing an H1B petition?
Employers must list the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, the job location, and the OEWS wage level for the position. This ensures correct placement in the weighted lottery.
Does the new fee affect H1B renewals?
No, the $100,000 fee applies only to new petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Renewals and extensions are not subject to this fee.
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