USCIS Clarification: Travel Advisory for H-1B Employees

UPDATE: USCIS Guidance on H-1B Proclamation

USCIS has launched a memorandum offering clarification on the Presidential Proclamation limiting entry of sure H-1B nonimmigrant employees.

Key Points from the Guidance:

1. The new $100,000 annual H-1B petition charge applies to new petitions filed on or after 12:01 AM (ET) on September 21, 2025.
2. The proclamation doesn’t have an effect on:
   • H-1B petitions filed earlier than September 21, 2025
   • Already accredited H-1B petitions
   • Individuals who already maintain legitimate H-1B visas
3. The proclamation doesn’t limit the power of present H-1B visa holders to journey to or from the United States.
4. Current workers within the U.S. on legitimate H-1B standing could proceed working and increasing their standing with out the brand new charge requirement.

We perceive how unsettling this continues to be. ISSS will monitor developments intently and share additional updates as federal businesses present extra implementation particulars.

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Travel Advisory for H-1B Employees

On September 19, 2025, the White House issued a presidential proclamation limiting the entry of H-1B visa holders to the U.S. until their petition is accompanied by a $100,000 fee.

The proclamation takes impact at 12:01 a.m. ET on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

Key factors:

• If you’re at present outdoors the U.S., we strongly advocate you come earlier than 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

• If you’re within the U.S., your H-1B employment and standing stay legitimate.

• If you’re within the means of getting your H-1B visa and at present outdoors of the U.S., please contact ISSS and your division in regards to the influence of this proclamation.

• If you’re touring or planning to journey, your return could also be impacted as soon as the proclamation takes impact. Please postpone non-essential worldwide journey till federal businesses launch directions.

• ISSS will share updates as quickly as USCIS, DOS, and CBP present implementing steerage.

If you’re overseas now or should journey quickly, please contact Lily Zhang, ISSS Director of Advising, Compliance, IT & Operations at lizhang1@upenn.edu instantly for individualized recommendation.

We will proceed to maintain you knowledgeable because the scenario evolves.