Trump's Planned $100,000 H-1B Fee Rattles Tech Sector

Core Points - The recent announcement regarding the $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications has caused significant confusion, initially unclear whether it applied to new applicants or existing holders [1][2] - The White House later clarified that the fee applies only to new applicants, but the initial chaos led many tech companies to advise employees against international travel [3][4] - The fee is seen as unmanageable for startups and small businesses, potentially hindering their ability to hire necessary talent [5][6] - Larger tech companies may cope better with the fee, but the overall impact on innovation and competitiveness for American startups is concerning [7][10] - The H-1B visa is crucial not only for tech companies but also for various industries, including healthcare and research institutions [10][11] - There are concerns that companies may pause international hiring or shift operations abroad due to the new fee, affecting U.S. workers [13] - The proclamation includes language for national interest exceptions, but the high evidentiary standards may limit its effectiveness [14][15] - Legal challenges to the executive order are anticipated, with arguments focusing on Congress's role in setting immigration laws and fees [16][17] - The recent Supreme Court decision may complicate efforts to issue nationwide injunctions against the proclamation [18][19]