Lawsuit Challenges Visa Fee Increase
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over a proposed $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas, according to reports. The legal challenge, filed last Thursday, claims the dramatic fee increase would override existing immigration law and make the program cost-prohibitive for many American businesses.
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Legal Grounds for Challenge
Sources indicate the Chamber’s lawsuit argues the new fee is unlawful because it conflicts with provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act that govern the H-1B program. The report states that current law requires fees to be based on the costs incurred by the government in processing visas, rather than serving as a deterrent to program use.
Neil Bradley, executive vice president and chief policy officer at the U.S. Chamber, emphasized in the organization’s official release that “the new $100,000 visa fee will make it cost-prohibitive for U.S. employers, especially start-ups and small and midsize businesses, to utilize the H-1B program.” Bradley noted that Congress created the program specifically to ensure American businesses of all sizes could access global talent.
Impact on Technology Sector and Startups
Analysts suggest the steep fee increase would particularly affect the technology sector and startup companies that often rely on skilled foreign workers from countries like India and China. According to the analysis, these businesses already face challenges due to limited annual quotas of 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 reserved for individuals with advanced degrees.
The fee represents a massive increase from previous costs, which reportedly ranged from $2,000 to $5,000 per application depending on company size. This comes amid broader administration efforts to reform the H-1B program’s lottery selection system, as detailed in NBC News coverage of the proposed changes.
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Broader Immigration Policy Context
The lawsuit emerges during a period of significant immigration policy shifts under the Trump administration. Sources indicate these changes are part of a broader push to limit immigration and encourage American companies to hire more domestically.
Despite these immigration restrictions, Bradley noted in the Chamber’s statement that the organization has supported other administration initiatives, including tax reforms and regulatory reductions. However, he emphasized that “to support this growth, our economy will require more workers, not fewer,” according to his official biography and statements.
Industry Reactions and Next Steps
The business community’s response to the proposed fee has been largely negative, with many expressing concern about the potential impact on innovation and competitiveness. While major technology companies have historically been significant beneficiaries of the H-1B program, analysts suggest the fee would disproportionately affect smaller companies and emerging ventures.
A White House representative reportedly did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit. The legal challenge represents one of the most significant business community responses to the administration’s immigration policies to date.
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