Higher Ed Groups Urge DHS to Reconsider Steep H-1B Petition Fee
NACAC joined a coalition letter led by the American Council on Education asking the Department of Homeland Security to rethink a proposed $103,265 fee on H-1B cap-subject petitions. The groups argue the fee could deter international talent and affect students' post-graduation opportunities. Colleges are mostly exempt, but the broader impact on U.S. competitiveness is a concern.
The proposed fee would apply to H-1B cap-subject petitions, which are the annual quota-limited visas for skilled foreign workers. The coalition letter, signed by NACAC and led by the American Council on Education, argues that such a steep cost could discourage employers from sponsoring international graduates.
For international students, the ability to work in the U.S. after graduation is a significant factor in choosing where to attend college. The groups contend that weakening this pathway could reduce the country's appeal as a study destination, even though colleges themselves would not pay the fee directly.
This fee proposal could reshape the flow of international talent into the U.S. labor market. If enacted, employers may become more selective about sponsoring visas, potentially reducing opportunities for international graduates. This could affect university enrollment patterns and the broader economy, as skilled workers may choose other countries with more accessible pathways. The outcome may signal how the administration balances revenue generation against maintaining the U.S.'s competitive position in global education and employment.