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What Changed & Who’s Affected
How the H1B Fee Hike Impacts You
➤ For Current H1B Holders
Renewals will cost more, and delays may add pressure if your status is expiring soon.
➤ For New Applicants
Employers and applicants must budget higher costs, making early preparation more critical.
➤ For Employers & Sponsors
Increased fees mean higher hiring costs — compliance and planning are key.
Exploring Alternate Pathways into the U.S.
With the recent H1B fee hike, many skilled professionals and employers are reassessing their immigration options. While the H1B visa remains a popular choice for U.S. employment-based entry, it is not the only route available. Understanding alternative pathways can help candidates and businesses navigate the system more effectively and potentially reduce costs or avoid delays.
Permanent Employment-Based Green Cards (EB-1 through EB-5)
These are immigrant visas (leading to permanent residence).
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EB-1: Priority Workers
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EB-1A: Extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
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EB-1B: Outstanding professors and researchers.
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EB-1C: Multinational executives and managers.
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EB-2: Advanced Degree / Exceptional Ability
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EB-2 (Regular): Requires a U.S. job offer and PERM labor certification.
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EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver): No job offer required if work benefits the U.S. national interest.
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EB-3: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers
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Skilled workers (at least 2 years experience).
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Professionals (bachelor’s degree).
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Other workers (unskilled labor, subject to quota limits).
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EB-4: Special Immigrants
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Religious workers, certain broadcasters, physicians, employees of international organizations, etc.
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EB-5: Immigrant Investor Program
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Minimum investment: $1,050,000 (or $800,000 in a targeted employment/rural area).
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Must create at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.
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Temporary Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Visas
These do not provide permanent residency directly but can lead to green card sponsorship.
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L-1A / L-1B: Intra-company transferees (executives/managers or specialized knowledge).
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O-1: Individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement.
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P-1: Internationally recognized athletes or entertainers.
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P-2 / P-3: Artists and entertainers in reciprocal or culturally unique programs.
Navigate the New H1B Fee Changes
The H1B visa fees have increased, impacting both new applicants and employers sponsoring talent. Now more than ever, it’s important to understand your options and plan strategically.
Our team can help you:
➤ Assess how the fee hike affects your H1B application or renewal
➤ Explore alternative pathways to work or employ talent in the U.S.
➤ Develop a personalized immigration strategy to minimize costs and delays
Connect with experienced immigration attorneys who can guide you through the updated process and ensure you make informed decisions.
👉 Book Your Free Assessment Today