🇺🇸 US Judge Upholds #TRUMP ’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee ✨
A US federal judge has refused to strike down President Donald Trump’s proposed $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas, calling it a policy decision within the president’s legal authority. The ruling deals a setback to American tech firms and business groups that challenged the move.
⚖️ What the court said US District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington, DC rejected a lawsuit filed by the US Chamber of Commerce, which argued the steep fee violated immigration law and would force companies, hospitals, and employers to cut jobs and services.
Judge Howell ruled that Trump acted under an “express statutory grant of authority”, adding that courts cannot judge the wisdom of a political decision as long as it stays within the law. “If the policy fits within legal limits, it must be upheld,” she noted.
🏢 Industry backlash The Chamber of Commerce warned the fee would hurt businesses that rely on skilled foreign workers, especially small and medium-sized firms. Its chief counsel said the group is “disappointed” and is considering further legal options.
💼 What is the H-1B fee hike?
H-1B visas allow US firms to hire foreign professionals in specialised roles
65,000 visas are issued annually, plus 20,000 for advanced degree holders
Current fees range from $2,000–$5,000
Trump’s order raises this to $100,000 for new applications
📉 Why the administration supports it Trump cited federal immigration powers, arguing the H-1B programme has displaced US workers. Judge Howell agreed the administration presented enough evidence, pointing to cases where companies laid off Americans while continuing to seek H-1B hires.
🔎 What’s next? Separate lawsuits by Democratic-led states and employer coalitions are still pending, keeping the issue firmly in the spotlight.
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