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The $100,000 H-1B visa fee has posed challenges for small startups, while large tech companies have found a new way. Amidst these changes, it has become easier for foreign students to find jobs.

In September of last year, US President Donald Trump increased the H-1B visa fee to $100,000. This decision has made it significantly more expensive for American companies to hire foreign workers. While previously easy to hire, companies are now forced to spend significant sums on each application. The impact of this change is clearly visible across the tech and healthcare sectors.

The new fees have had the greatest impact on small startups. These companies already operate within limited budgets. Paying the $100,000 fee is difficult for them. Small companies working in sectors such as artificial intelligence and healthcare are particularly vulnerable. These sectors require foreign workers with specialized skills. But now, due to the high fees, they are avoiding hiring through H-1B visas.

Big Tech Companies Find a Way

Reports indicate that while major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google can afford these fees, they, too, are now adopting new methods. According to reports, these companies are adopting alternative methods instead of relying directly on H-1B visas. This saves them fees and keeps their work running.

New Changes to H-1B Visas

Each year, 85,000 new H-1B visas are issued in the United States. Of these, 20,000 are reserved for foreign students who have earned a master's degree or higher from an American university. Previously, a lottery system was used for this visa, meaning who received it depended on luck.

Now, the government has changed this system as well. Under the new system, priority will be given to those with higher salaries. This will directly benefit large companies, as they generally pay higher salaries. This could make it easier for higher-paid candidates to obtain visas.

New Opportunity for Foreign Students

Amidst these changes, there's good news for foreign students studying in the United States. After completing their studies, students are allowed to work for up to 12 months under "Optional Practical Training," or OPT. If a student has pursued a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) course, they have the opportunity to work for up to three years.

Now, major tech companies are hiring these students directly instead of using H-1B visas. This saves the company the need to pay visa fees and the student gains work experience in the United States. During the three-year period, the company can also plan for the future.

Priority for those with higher salaries

Experts say that even if a large company sponsors an H-1B visa for an employee, they have a higher chance of obtaining the visa. Under the new policy, higher-paid employees are being given priority. Larger companies typically offer better salaries, so their candidates may be more likely to be considered.

Overseas Job Options

Large tech companies have another option. If it's difficult to bring an employee to the US, they can offer them work in their offices in other countries. This way, the company's operations remain operational and visa hassles are reduced.