New rule raises extension fees for H-1B and L-1 visa holders

A federal rule change announced by the Department of Homeland Security expands the 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee to cover extensions of H-1B and L-1 visas. Beginning September 9, covered employers must remit $4,000 for each H-1B extension and $4,500 for each L-1 extension, fees that previously applied only to initial visa grants. The regulation targets firms employing 50 or more workers in the United States, with more than half of their U.S. staff on H-1B or L-1 visas.

The amendment clarifies that the biometric fee is required for all extension petitions, even when the employee remains with the same employer. The rule aims to align the fee structure with statutory language concerning fraud prevention and detection. No changes are made to the underlying visa categories themselves. Employers will need to adjust their budgeting and filing processes to accommodate the higher costs.