Trump’s H1B Executive Order Shocks Tech Industry with $100,000 Visa Fee and New “Gold Card” Program

The latest H1B executive order signed by President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the technology sector, universities, and international communities. The order imposes a $100,000 annual fee on both new and renewal applications under the H-1B visa program. This drastic change, which goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT on September 21, 2025, represents one of the most significant reforms to skilled foreign worker visas in decades.

Alongside the new fee structure, the administration also introduced alternative visa pathways such as the “Gold Card” and “Platinum Card” programs, which appear to offer wealthy individuals and corporations a privileged route to U.S. residency.

What the H1B Executive Order Includes

The core of the executive order centers on increasing costs for H-1B applications. According to the White House fact sheet, employers will now be required to pay a $100,000 annual fee per applicant. This applies both to:

• New H-1B applications

• Renewal petitions for existing workers

The administration argues the measure is designed to ensure companies prioritize American workers over foreign talent and to filter applications toward “top, top people” with high skills and wages.

Key Details of the Executive Order

Impact on Tech Industry and Employers

The tech sector, which relies heavily on H-1B workers, is expected to face major disruptions. Companies such as large technology firms and startups that hire international talent will now see their labor costs rise dramatically.

Potential Consequences for Employers

• Increased hiring costs: Employers must allocate an additional $100,000 per worker annually.

• Reduced competitiveness: High costs may discourage hiring foreign talent, leading to innovation challenges.

• Outsourcing risk: Some companies may move jobs overseas to bypass the fee.

Effects on Foreign Workers and International Students

The order directly affects both new applicants and existing H-1B visa holders. Even those outside the U.S. with approved petitions may face barriers if the required fee has not been paid.

For many international students hoping to transition into U.S. employment after graduation, the new financial hurdles could act as a deterrent. Experts caution that the policy could discourage global talent from choosing the U.S., impacting fields with critical shortages such as STEM, healthcare, and education.

Legal and Administrative Challenges

Legal experts are questioning whether the executive branch has the authority to impose such a substantial fee without congressional approval. Current immigration law allows fees primarily to cover processing costs, not to fundamentally reshape visa access.

The order is expected to undergo a rule-making process, including public comments and federal agency regulations, before being fully implemented. Nevertheless, the proclamation sets the fee to begin immediately on September 21, sparking concerns of lawsuits and injunctions.

The “Gold Card” and “Platinum Card” Visa Alternatives

Alongside the H-1B reform, the administration introduced new visa categories:

Gold Card Visa

• $1 million contribution grants U.S. residency

• Corporate version available for $2 million or more sponsorship

• Marketed as a premium pathway for wealthy investors and executives

Platinum Card Visa

• Designed as an even higher tier than Gold Card

• Offers additional benefits, potentially including tax advantages

• Details remain limited but appear targeted at ultra-wealthy applicants

These programs contrast sharply with the H-1B, suggesting a system where wealthy individuals and corporations can bypass traditional skilled worker visa restrictions.

Reactions from Stakeholders

Industry Opposition

Tech firms, universities, and business groups warn that the order will:

• Raise hiring costs beyond sustainable levels

• Harm innovation and research leadership in the U.S.

• Encourage companies to expand operations abroad instead of domestically

Supporters’ Arguments

Proponents of the executive order argue that it will:

• Protect American workers from job competition

• Ensure that only the most highly skilled foreign workers enter the U.S.

• Generate significant revenue for border security and immigration enforcement

International and Diplomatic Implications

Countries like India and China, which send large numbers of skilled workers to the U.S., may see this as a diplomatic issue. The policy could strain relations with key trading partners and affect bilateral agreements around skilled labor and student exchange programs.

The H1B executive order represents a dramatic shift in U.S. immigration and labor policy. With its steep $100,000 visa fee and the introduction of the elite “Gold Card” and “Platinum Card” programs, the order is likely to reshape how global talent views opportunities in America. Whether it bolsters domestic employment or sparks legal challenges and international backlash, this decision will have long-lasting consequences for the U.S. economy, innovation, and global reputation.