Judge Voids Trump's H-1B Visa Fee

A federal judge, Leo T. Sorokin>>>, has voided the Donald Trump>>> administration's requirement of a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas, ruling that the executive branch lacked the authority to impose what he deemed a tax without congressional approval. The decision, issued in a 42-page ruling, sided with a coalition of Democratic state attorneys general, including United States — New York (state)>>> and United States — California>>>, who argued the policy would harm universities, hospitals, and technology companies. The Donald Trump>>> administration had imposed the fee in an effort to curb the use of the H-1B visa program, which allows U.S. employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers. The ruling reinforces the constitutional separation of powers, affirming that only the United States>>> has the power to levy taxes. The United States — United States Department of Justice>>> is expected to appeal the decision, but for now, the previous fee structure for H-1B visa petitions is restored, providing relief to companies like Microsoft>>>, Amazon (company)>>>, and Meta Platforms>>> that depend on international talent.