Microsoft Warns H-1B Workers: Return Before Fee Hike
Microsoft has issued an urgent memo advising employees holding H-1B and H-4 visas to return to the U.S. immediately if they are abroad. The advisory follows a new U.S. government rule that imposes a $100,000 annual fee for each H-1B petition starting September 21, 2025. Workers outside the U.S. after the deadline may face re-entry issues.
What the Fee Rule Entails
The rule requires employers to pay the significantly increased fee for H-1B visas. Current visa holders inside the U.S. are being told to remain in the country to avoid complications. Experts warn that travel outside the U.S. after the deadline could lead to being stranded or denied permission to return.
Who Is Most Affected
A large proportion of H-1B visa holders are Indians. The rule is expected to impact tech companies heavily reliant on foreign skilled workers. Employees with H-4 visas (dependents of H-1B holders) are also included in internal advisories, even though the proclamation does not explicitly impose the fee on them.
Implications
The hike in the visa fee and the urgency of the advisory could force many foreign workers to change travel plans. Companies say this may disrupt projects, talent mobility, and operations. Legal experts are also watching closely to see how exemptions (such as a “national interest” exception) may apply.
