Action Required: Halt All International Travel Immediately
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Due to a new Presidential Proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, the University of Southern California (USC) is issuing this urgent travel advisory.
Out of an abundance of caution and until we receive clear guidance on implementation, all faculty and staff currently in the U.S. on H-1B status must immediately put all international travel plans on hold.
If you are currently outside the U.S. in H-1B status: We strongly recommend you return to the United States before the proclamation takes effect. Please make every effort to return immediately.
Key Point: This significant new fee only applies to new applications, not existing H-1B holders, renewals, or amendments. However, the policy has created confusion and uncertainty, which is why we are advising maximum caution regarding international travel.
USC Warns H-1B Visa Holders: Postpone International Travel Amid New $100,000 Fee Proclamation
The University of Southern California (USC) has advised faculty and staff who hold H-1B visas to temporarily halt all international travel following a new immigration order introduced by the Trump administration.
President Donald Trump recently signed a proclamation that imposes a staggering $100,000 fee on each new H-1B petition filed after September 21. This measure, intended to “protect American jobs” and reform the program, has caused widespread concern among institutions that rely on international talent.
USC’s Advisory:
- For H-1B holders currently in the U.S.: You should postpone all international travel plans until you receive further university guidance. This is a measure of caution to prevent potential re-entry complications.
- For H-1B holders currently abroad: You are strongly recommended to return to the U.S. before the new proclamation officially takes effect.
What to Know About the Fee:
The administration has clarified that the $100,000 cost applies only to new applications. It does not affect current H-1B holders, visa renewals, or amendments. This clarification was necessary after initial concerns that the fee would disrupt operations for tech companies and universities employing foreign professionals.
The new rule coincides with a DHS plan to revise H-1B distribution to prioritize applicants who offer higher wages or advanced roles, a move aimed at ensuring fair pay for highly skilled workers.
