On Sept. 19, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order requiring an additional $100,000 fee for H-1B workers entering the United States. The university is aware of this order, and teams including the offices of Legal Affairs and International Affairs are actively exploring impacts. While the situation is very fluid, Ohio State will continue to share guidance as soon as it is available.
A number of factors influence whether an executive order ultimately moves forward, or how it ultimately may be implemented. These factors include legal action/court orders challenging the executive order or legislation – which has occurred with numerous executive orders. If an order does move forward, implementation details can take time to develop. Ohio State will continue to monitor to ensure disruption to the university can be minimized where possible.
In the meantime, the university advises that anyone on an H-1B visa remain in the country, and while it may not be feasible on short notice, those on H-1B visas outside of the country should return if possible before midnight between Sunday, Sept. 21, and Monday, Sept. 22.
The Office of International Affairs shared an update on Sunday, Sept. 21, with Ohio State H-1B visa holders.
Information can also be found on Ohio State's Legislative and Executive Action web page under immigration. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website also has posted an FAQ.
Any scholar needing support should contact the Office of International Affairs at iss@osu.edu.