Second US Federal Judge Blocks $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee
A US District Judge has halted the implementation of a controversial $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas, citing procedural failures by immigration authorities.
On Wednesday, US District Judge Haywood Gilliam, based in Oakland, California, issued a ruling blocking a new $100,000 fee imposed by President Donald Trump on H-1B visas for highly skilled foreign workers. This marks the second time a federal judge has intervened against the policy, which has faced significant scrutiny.
Judge Gilliam determined that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the State Department failed to adhere to mandatory rule-making procedures when establishing the fee. The court’s decision suggests that the administration bypassed necessary regulatory steps required to implement such a substantial financial barrier for international professionals.
For Thai residents or expatriates planning to work in the United States, this ruling provides a temporary reprieve from the prohibitive cost. However, the legal landscape remains fluid. It is currently unconfirmed how the administration will respond to this judicial setback or if they will attempt to reintroduce the fee through a revised regulatory process. Those affected by US visa policies should monitor official government announcements closely, as the status of these requirements could change pending further court proceedings or administrative actions. This report is based on information provided by Khaosod English.
