Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Application Fee Upheld by Judge

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration's implementation of a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications has been upheld by a federal judge, posing challenges for US technology companies that depend on skilled foreign labor [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Ruling and Implications - US District Judge Beryl Howell ruled that the increase in H-1B visa fees is lawful, supporting the administration's immigration restrictions and promoting the demand for US workers [2]. - The ruling allows the Trump administration to proceed with the fee, which the US Chamber of Commerce argues makes H-1B visas prohibitively expensive for businesses [3][4]. - Howell's decision indicates that the President has broad authority to address perceived economic and national security issues through such measures [2]. Group 2: Opposition and Ongoing Legal Challenges - The US Chamber of Commerce plans to appeal the ruling, emphasizing the need for the H-1B visa program to function as intended by Congress, allowing businesses to access global talent [3]. - A coalition of 19 state attorneys general is also contesting the fee, focusing on its potential negative impact on public sectors like healthcare and education that rely on H-1B visas [5]. - Other lawsuits are pending, including one from a global nurse-staffing agency, with hearings scheduled that could lead to further legal challenges against the new fee [6][7].