United States Work Permit 2025 – Rule Changes & Application Process

United States Work Permit 2025

Learn about U.S. work permit 2025 changes, new H-1B fees, visa rules, and the updated application process for foreign workers. 

Rule Changes & Application Process

In 2025, the United States work permit process has undergone major reforms impacting foreign workers and U.S. employers alike. The most significant change is the introduction of a $100,000 H-1B petition fee for new sponsorships filed after September 21, 2025, designed to prioritize highly skilled talent. USCIS has also updated Form I-765 filing locations, introduced higher asylum-based work permit fees, and provided automatic one-year extensions for eligible EAD holders to prevent work interruptions. The State Department has tightened the visa interview waiver program, requiring more applicants to appear in person. Additionally, new rules on prevailing wages will raise the salary thresholds for H-1B and similar visas, ensuring better protection for U.S. workers. Employers must now carefully evaluate the costs and compliance requirements before hiring foreign talent. For applicants, preparing accurate documentation, applying early, and tracking official announcements are key to a smooth process. These reforms mark a new phase in U.S. immigration policy and will influence how foreign professionals enter and work in the United States in 2025 and beyond.