The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has voiced deep concern over the Trump administration’s new H-1B visa rule, which dramatically increases the cost for companies sponsoring foreign workers.
In a statement issued on September 20, the Chamber said it is actively engaging with the government to limit the fallout from the unprecedented hike.
“We’re concerned about the impact on employees, their families, and employers. We’re working with the administration and our members to understand the full implications and the best path forward,” the Chamber said.
The new rule, signed by President Donald Trump through an executive order, raises the fee for sponsoring H-1B applicants to $100,000 per petition — up from the current range of $2,000 to $5,000 depending on employer size and additional costs. The measure is being described as a “mega disruption” across the tech industry, which relies heavily on skilled workers from abroad.
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals for highly skilled jobs requiring technical or theoretical expertise — especially in IT, engineering and research. Under Congressional limits, the U.S. can issue 65,000 H-1B visas annually, with an additional 20,000 reserved for advanced degree holders from U.S. institutions.
The dramatic hike triggered panic among thousands of Indian H-1B holders and applicants. In the hours after the announcement, many reportedly cancelled flights or rushed to return to the U.S. before the September 21 deadline, fearing the fee could affect their status or re-entry. Immigration attorneys and employers also warned visa holders and their families currently abroad to return immediately.
With India and China supplying the majority of H-1B talent, the move has raised alarms over talent pipelines, costs for U.S. employers, and the ability of skilled workers to enter or remain in the country. For now, the Chamber of Commerce says it is focused on “finding a resolution” before the disruption deepens.
