Judge Blocks Trump Plan to Impose $100,000 Fee on H-1B Visas

A United States federal judge has ruled that a proposed $100,000 fee on H-1B skilled worker visas is unlawful, delivering a significant setback to efforts linked to former President Donald Trump’s immigration policy agenda.

The ruling invalidates a controversial proposal that sought to impose a steep financial charge on employers hiring foreign skilled workers under the H-1B programme, a visa category widely used in the technology, engineering, and research sectors.

The court found that the fee exceeded legal limits set under existing immigration statutes and was not properly authorised through congressional procedure, according to court filings and legal observers.

The decision is expected to have major implications for US immigration policy debates, particularly around skilled labour shortages and the role of foreign professionals in the American economy.

Technology companies and industry groups had previously warned that such a high fee would discourage hiring international talent and could drive innovation and jobs overseas.

Supporters of stricter visa controls argue that the H-1B system has been overused to replace domestic workers, and that higher fees would prioritise American employment. However, critics say the policy would damage competitiveness in key industries.

The ruling adds to ongoing legal and political battles over immigration reform in the United States, an issue that remains deeply divisive across party lines.

Further appeals are expected as the case continues to develop.