H-1B visa, Jan. 14 -- Since its launch, the hefty $100,000 fee for an H-1B visa has triggered confusion for many. But a Reddit user had a typical query: "My H1-B was approved in 2024. I came to the US in January 2025, but was unfortunately laid off in August 2025. I travelled back to India and now have another job offer, starting from January 2026. Will the $100,000 fees apply in this case?"

We asked an immigration attorney, ChatGPT and Gemini for suggestions. Before delving into them, let's first understand where the H-1B visa fee applies (exemptions):

1. An H-1B visa is valid for three years and can be extended for an additional three years, totalling six years.

2. The H-1B fee requirement began on 21 September 2025.

3. It applies t...