Important U.S Immigration Updates: H-1B Visa Changes and the New Gold Card Program

Executive Summary:

On September 19, 2025, the Trump administration announced two major immigration updates. The first affects people applying for an H-1B Visa and the employers who hire them. The second introduces the Gold Card Program, which offers a fast-track option for permanent residency to individuals and corporations that make large financial contributions. This article explains what we know right now, how the H-1B Visa changes and the Gold Card Program may affect you, and why speaking with an immigration attorney is the safest step before making any decisions.

Big Changes for H-1B Visa Holders and Employers

The U.S. government has introduced a major change to the H-1B Visa program that greatly increases costs for employers. As of September 21, 2025, any company filing a petition for an H-1B worker outside of the United States must pay a $100,000 filing fee for each new application. In the past, visa fees were between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the size of the company. This makes the latest immigration update a dramatic shift in both cost and accessibility.

This rule does not affect workers who already hold a valid H-1B Visa, petitions that were approved before the rule took effect, or renewals and extensions. However, there is some concern that individuals outside the United States, even with previously approved petitions, might be asked to show proof that the new fee has been paid. At this point, this requirement has not been confirmed by the government, but it has created additional worry and uncertainty for applicants and employers alike. Until there is clear guidance, it is a good idea for workers to carry proof of their approved petition and any related fee documentation when traveling, just to be safe.

The government has also announced plans to raise prevailing wage levels for H-1B employees. Employers will be required to pay higher salaries to meet these new standards, which could make it harder for some companies to hire international talent. While exemptions may be possible if the position is shown to be in the “national interest,” the government has not yet explained exactly how that will be defined.

Which Industries Are Most Affected?

The H-1B Visa program is most heavily used by technology companies. About two-thirds of all H-1B jobs are tech-related, and top employers include Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple. While large companies may manage the new costs, smaller tech firms could struggle, leading to fewer opportunities for international workers in these fields.

The Gold Card Program: A New Fast-Track Visa Option

The administration also announced the creation of a new pathway to U.S. citizenship, called the Gold Card program. This program allows individuals or corporations to accelerate the process of obtaining permanent residency by making significant financial gifts to the U.S. Treasury.

Here’s what we know so far about how the Gold Card Program works:

• An individual must give $1 million to qualify.
• A corporation must give $2 million on behalf of the applicant.

These funds will be used to support U.S. commerce and industry. In return, applicants will receive expedited processing for immigrant visas or adjustments of status.

The Gold Card Program is not fully in place yet. The government has 90 days to finalize the details, including processing fees and rules for corporate sponsorship. Until those rules are announced, applicants should be careful and wait for official guidance before moving forward.

What These Changes Could Mean for You

Here’s a quick guide depending on your situation:

H-1B Workers Outside the U.S.

If you are applying for a new H-1B Visa from outside the United States, your employer now has to pay the $100,000 filing fee. Because the cost is so high, some employers may choose not to file new petitions, which could limit opportunities for workers abroad. If you are in this situation, it’s important to explore whether your job might qualify for a national interest exemption or if there are other visa options that could fit your situation.

H-1B Workers Already in the U.S.

If you already have a valid H-1B Visa and are living in the United States, the new fee does not apply to you. However, you may still feel the impact of this immigration update. Wage requirements are expected to rise, and this could affect your future extensions or job changes. It is also smart to be careful with international travel, since re-entry may come with more scrutiny under the new rules.

Employers Hiring H-1B Workers

If you are an employer who hires H-1B Visa workers, these changes will significantly raise the cost of sponsorship. The $100,000 fee is now part of every new petition, on top of higher wage requirements. This means businesses will need to adjust hiring budgets and think carefully about which roles may qualify for the national interest exemption.

Individuals Considering Permanent Residency

If you are hoping to become a permanent resident of the United States, the new Gold Card Program could be an option. This program promises faster processing for green cards, but it comes with very high financial requirements. Many details are still being finalized, so it is best to stay informed and review your options before deciding whether this path is right for you.

Moving Forward: What You Should Do Now

While these immigration updates have been announced, many questions remain. We do not yet know exactly which jobs or industries will qualify for the national interest exemption, how extensions for current H-1B Visa holders will be handled, or the exact timeline for when the Gold Card Program will begin. There is also the chance that legal challenges could delay or change how these immigration updates are applied.

What we do know is that immigration policy is shifting quickly. If you are an H-1B worker, an employer, or someone considering permanent residency through investment, it is important to prepare now. At Davis & Associates, our team, located both in Dallas and Houston, is committed to helping individuals, families, and employers navigate immigration with confidence and care. If you are worried about how the H-1B Visa changes or the Gold Card Program could affect you, we are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us give you the clarity and peace of mind you need before making any big decisions.