The government’s H-1B program changes led to several employers withdrawing from applying. Many employers feel the new one-hundred-thousand-dollar fee closed the door on an H-1B program. However, the new fee disproportionately affects smaller employers that don’t have the resources for paying. The fee’s also a major roadblock for medical professionals.
Long a source of controversy, the H-1B program faced increased government scrutiny over the past year. In September 2025, the government imposed a mandatory one-hundred-thousand-dollar fee for employers. The government stated the new fee prevents abuse by large tech companies.
Additionally, the Department of Labor (DOL) recently proposed increasing the required minimum wage for each level in the H-1B LCA process. The government explained these changes incentivize companies to hire American born workers first. According to the New York Times, some immigration lawyers experienced a nearly fifty percent drop in H-1B applications this year compared to 2025.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.