U.S. Chamber Sues Trump Administration Over $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee, Citing Legal Violations

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce sued the Trump administration in federal court to prevent it from implementing its newly imposed $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. It is the first suit filed by the Chamber against the administration.

The H-1B visa program, which has been widely used by the tech industry and other sectors in recruiting foreign skilled employees, has been a pillar of US labor policy. The recent executive order signed on September 19, however, introduces a major financial obstacle for employers in sponsoring foreign talent.

In its suit, as filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, the Chamber argues that the fee is unlawful because it bypasses established legislative processes, as barred by the Immigration and Nationality Act. The group is seeking the court to issue an injunction blocking imposition of the fee on grounds of its illegality and potential economic impact.

Business leaders and law professors argue that the charge would deter innovation and global competitiveness, particularly in sectors that rely on highly skilled talents. The move has generated widespread criticism of immigration policy and executive authority, with detractors describing it as punitive and misguided.

While the court battle continues, the outcome could redefine the future of skilled immigration and impact how U.S. businesses engage with global talent pools.