New Biometric Fee Added for H-1B and L-1 Work Visa Petitions
The Department of Homeland Security introduced a new biometric processing fee for certain employment-based visa petitions, affecting skilled workers and intracompany transferees seeking US employment authorization.
Starting August 10, 2026, DHS implemented a new 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee requirement for certain H-1B and L-1 nonimmigrant visa petitions. This fee applies when employers petition USCIS for these work visa categories.
What Changed
- New biometric fees are being implemented for certain H-1B and L-1 visa petitions
- A visa bond program for B-1/B-2 visitors allows consular officers to require bonds of up to $20,000
This represents another cost increase in the employment visa process. Combined with existing filing fees and attorney costs, workers and sponsors should budget accordingly when planning visa applications or transfers.
For expats and skilled workers: If your employer plans to sponsor you for H-1B or L-1 status, or if you're transferring between subsidiaries or branch offices abroad and in the US, expect additional processing costs. Ask your employer or immigration counsel about the total fee structure before filing. The earlier you understand costs, the better you can plan your relocation budget.
Sources
MyHAbroad is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any government or public authority. This is general information only — not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Always verify with the official source before acting:
