H-1B Visa

The H-1B visa has always been the stepping stone for skilled professionals seeking to build careers in the United States. With the new $100,000 petition fee announced in September 2025, however, the pathway has become dramatically more expensive. While this does not impact renewals or existing holders, new applicants must now work harder than ever to prove their worth. Employers want clear evidence of value, and pursuing a Marketing and Business Certification has become one of the strongest ways to demonstrate you can bridge technical expertise with strategic outcomes.

What Is the H-1B Visa?

The H-1B is a non-immigrant work visa designed for highly specialised occupations in sectors such as technology, engineering, medicine, and finance. For decades, it has been a vital mechanism for U.S. employers to access international talent that keeps their businesses competitive. Tech companies in particular have benefited, relying heavily on global expertise to fuel innovation and expansion.

Donald Trump and the New Fee Policy

In September 2025, President Donald Trump announced the $100,000 one-time fee for every new H-1B petition. The administration presented it as a way to prioritize American workers and limit sponsorships to only the most exceptional candidates. The fee will apply per petition starting with the 2026 lottery cycle, with limited exemptions for roles deemed in the national interest or tied to strategic industries.

Why It Matters for Companies

This policy forces employers to rethink their hiring strategies. Large technology firms may be able to absorb millions in new costs, but outsourcing giants could face billions in added expenses annually. For example, a firm like HCL Technologies filing thousands of petitions could see extraordinary financial strain. With costs so high, employers will sponsor only those candidates who can prove unique value. This is where a tech certification becomes essential—it assures companies that the skills they are investing in are already validated.

Why This Matters for Skilled Professionals

For workers, the stakes have risen. Degrees and work history remain important, but they may not be enough when employers are weighing a six-figure petition fee. What companies now want is assurance that candidates can deliver results from the very first day. Adding a deep tech certification to your profile is one way to provide that assurance, signalling mastery of cutting-edge technologies that directly impact business performance. Equally, hands-on experiences such as participating in an Agentic AI Course demonstrate the ability to apply advanced tools and frameworks in real-world business scenarios, making a candidate significantly more attractive to employers.

Global Perspective

Although the U.S. has tightened requirements, the global demand for certified talent is growing. Employers across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia are equally focused on proof of competence. Certified professionals are already commanding higher salaries and enjoying more stable career paths. Whether targeting the U.S. market or alternatives such as Canada or the UK, investing in certifications makes a professional stand out in competitive pools.

H-1B Visa Fee Policy: Before and After the 2025 Change

Aspect	Before September 2025	After September 2025
Petition Fee	$10–$5,000 depending on petition type and employer size	Flat $100,000 for each new petition
Scope of Application	Applied to both new and renewal petitions	Limited strictly to new applications
Renewals	Standard renewal fees only	Exempt from the surcharge
Employer Cost Burden	Manageable even for high-volume filers	Potentially billions in new annual costs
Impact on Large Tech Companies	Higher costs, but sustainable	Millions in added spending each cycle
Impact on Outsourcing Firms	Significant but manageable	Massive strain with high petition volumes
Candidate Selectivity	Broad pool considered	Only top, certified talent considered
Global Talent Flow	Easier to secure sponsorship	More limited opportunities, higher selectivity
Exemptions	None specific	Exceptions for national interest roles

What Is the New H-1B Visa Fee in 2025?

The new rule introduces a flat $100,000 one-time fee per petition, representing the steepest increase in the history of the program.

Does the $100,000 Fee Apply to Existing H-1B Visa Holders?

No. The surcharge is applicable only to new petitions. Existing visa holders and those renewing remain unaffected.

When Will the New H-1B Fee Take Effect?

The policy comes into force with the 2026 H-1B lottery cycle. Employers have one year to adapt to the change.

Who Pays the New H-1B Petition Fee – Employer or Employee?

Employers are required by law to cover the petition fee. Candidates cannot be charged directly, which makes companies more selective in sponsorship decisions.

How Can Professionals Increase Their Chances of H-1B Sponsorship in 2026?

By building a portfolio of recognised certifications and practical experiences. Employers want reassurance that candidates can hit the ground running. Whether it is through AI-focused credentials, blockchain training, or leadership certifications, each addition to your profile makes sponsorship less of a gamble.

Are There Cheaper Alternatives to H-1B Visas for Skilled Professionals?

Yes. Options include the L-1 visa for intra-company transfers, the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary achievements, and skilled worker programs in Canada and the UK, both of which are attracting global talent with more flexible rules.

Do Certifications Really Help in Getting H-1B Visa Sponsorship?

Absolutely. Certifications are tangible evidence of skills and practical competence. They reassure employers that their investment in sponsorship is justified. A candidate with a Marketing and Business Certification stands a much stronger chance of securing sponsorship compared to someone with only traditional qualifications.

Alternatives to H-1B Visa 2025

While the new fee raises barriers in the U.S., professionals have options. The L-1 visa is well-suited for multinational transfers, and the O-1 visa bypasses the lottery for individuals with exceptional achievements. Canada and the UK continue to expand their visa programs, offering professionals more accessible global opportunities.

Conclusion

The U.S. government’s new H-1B visa policy is reshaping global hiring. A $100,000 petition fee means only the most skilled and certified professionals will justify the cost. By securing credentials and by showcasing hands-on readiness, professionals can continue to thrive in a more selective global job market.