In a sweeping move that has stunned employers, immigrants, and universities alike, President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 annual fee on H‑1B visa applications — an extraordinary escalation in costs for companies seeking to hire high-skilled foreign talent. The new rule, which takes effect September 21, 2025, also prohibits entry of H‑1B holders into the U.S. unless the fee has been paid by their sponsoring employer. The new policy is part of a broader immigration overhaul that includes so-called “gold card” and “platinum card” pathways for wealthy immigrants, and many believe it could run into constitutional and procedural legal hurdles.