Donald Trump has ignited fresh outrage after announcing that the cost of one of America’s most sought-after visas will skyrocket from $1,500 to a staggering $100,000, a move critics say will devastate families, businesses, and entire communities. Speaking at a rally in Texas, Trump framed the increase as part of his broader crackdown on immigration, declaring that “only those who truly value America should pay to enter.” The New York Times confirmed that the price surge represents the largest jump in U.S. visa costs in history.
The visa in question — widely used by skilled workers and entrepreneurs — has long been seen as a gateway for immigrants contributing to the U.S. economy. Raising the fee by more than 6,500 percent will effectively shut out all but the wealthiest applicants. The Washington Post reported that Trump’s advisers believe the dramatic hike will “protect American jobs,” but economists warn it will cripple sectors dependent on foreign talent and investment.
Trump just raised a key U.S. visa fee from $1,500 to $100,000. It’s effectively a ban disguised as a price tag. — @JuddLegum
Reaction from immigrant rights groups was furious. “This is not immigration reform — it’s extortion,” said an attorney with the ACLU, interviewed by CNN. “No ordinary family or small business can afford $100,000 for a visa. This is designed to keep people out.” Critics noted that Trump’s plan arrives just as applications for the program had reached record highs, making the timing even more punishing for would-be applicants.
Businesses also sounded the alarm. Tech executives told The Wall Street Journal that the move will make it nearly impossible to recruit talent from overseas, while farmers and small business owners warned it will deepen labor shortages already hitting critical industries. “This isn’t about protecting American workers — it’s about breaking the system,” said one California grower, who employs seasonal workers on visa programs.
From $1,500 to $100,000. Trump’s visa fee hike is catastrophic for families and businesses alike. — @AOC
Supporters, however, hailed the increase as long overdue. Conservative commentators argued that the new cost will ensure only the “most committed” applicants seek entry. Senator Tom Cotton praised the move, saying it would “end the flood of cheap foreign labor.” On Truth Social, Trump doubled down, writing: “We are DONE being taken advantage of. If you want to come here, you will pay for the privilege.” Fox News reported that Trump’s base erupted in applause at the Texas rally when he announced the figure.
Immigrant families, meanwhile, say they feel betrayed and abandoned. Stories of applicants saving for years to cover the original $1,500 fee flooded social media, many accompanied by images of children holding American flags. The Los Angeles Times documented one family in Los Angeles who said they had sold belongings to prepare for their application, only to learn the cost had jumped beyond their reach. “We dreamed of building a life here,” the father said. “Now that dream is impossible.”
My cousin saved for five years to pay $1,500 for her visa. Trump just made it $100,000. Her dream is gone. — @AnandWrites
Policy experts argue that the move is less about revenue and more about deterrence. At $100,000 per applicant, the program would raise billions in theory, but in practice, applications are expected to collapse. Reuters noted that some officials inside the Department of Homeland Security privately warned that the drastic increase could be legally challenged as a de facto ban, violating long-standing immigration statutes.
For now, immigrant communities are bracing for impact, while legal groups prepare lawsuits. Protesters have already gathered in Washington, D.C., carrying signs reading “$100K = No American Dream.” On the other side, Trump supporters cheered outside the rally, waving flags and chanting, “Pay up or stay out.” The collision of outrage and celebration underscores once again how immigration remains one of the most divisive issues in American politics — and how Trump’s policies continue to turn lives upside down overnight.
