US H-1B Visa Process to See Major Changes Ahead of $100,000 Fee Implementation in 2026

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has signalled significant changes to the H-1B visa process before the revised $100,000 fee comes into effect in February 2026, criticising the current system for allowing low-cost tech consultants to enter the US with their families.

“This procedure goes into effect in February 2026, and I expect a significant number of changes between now and then,” Lutnick told NewsNation.

The Trump administration recently announced the $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa petitions, including renewals, though current visa-holders are exempt and can continue to travel freely. Lutnick defended the fee, saying it should prevent the system from being “overrun” by lower-paid workers.

He also criticised the H-1B lottery system, calling it “bizarre” and outdated. According to Lutnick, 74% of H-1B visas currently go to tech consultants, while the program was originally designed for highly skilled professionals like doctors and educators. “The idea that inexpensive tech consultants should be coming into this country and bringing their families… I find it just wrong,” he said.

Lutnick added that reforms would prioritise high-paying and highly skilled positions, ensuring that visas go to the most qualified candidates.

The announcement follows the launch of ‘Project Firewall’ by the US Department of Labour, an enforcement initiative aimed at preventing H-1B abuse and ensuring American workers are prioritised for highly skilled jobs.