<h1>US says H-1B fee hike will be a one-time charge on new 2026 petitions, not affecting current holders or renewals</h1> The US clarified that a large H-1B application fee increase will apply as a one-time charge to new petitions from 2026 and will not affect current visa holders or renewals, resolving immediate eligibility and timeline uncertainty created by the proclamation and ensuing travel disruption. The clarification reduces short-term legal and operational risk for employers and employees; industry bodies assess only a marginal sectoral impact given reduced reliance on H-1B staffing and substantial US-focused upskilling and local hiring investments. Firms may still need to reassess longer-term recruitment and compliance strategies if the rule remains.