Understand the fee structure for H-1B applications, specifically for F-1 OPT students pursuing a Change of Status in Washington State.
A common concern for F-1 OPT students transitioning to H-1B status in Washington State is the potential $100K fee. This page clarifies the specific conditions under which this fee applies and confirms exemptions for Change of Status applications.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| $100K Fee Applicability | Consular Processing ONLY | Clarified |
| F-1 OPT Change of Status Fee | EXEMPT from $100K fee | Confirmed |
| Total Verified Sponsors in Get Wisa | 45,000+ | ↑ 7% |
| Total H-1B Filing Records in Get Wisa | 323,617 | ↑ 6% |
The distinction between consular processing and Change of Status (COS) is critical for understanding H-1B fees. Our analysis of DOL data confirms that the $100K fee is a specific surcharge for employers petitioning for consular processing, not for those facilitating a COS for an individual already within the U.S. on F-1 OPT.
Always confirm with your sponsoring employer whether your H-1B petition will be filed as a Change of Status (if you are in the U.S.) or Consular Processing (if you are outside the U.S.). This directly impacts fee obligations and processing locations.
For F-1 OPT students in Washington State aiming for H-1B status in 2026, understanding the fee structure is paramount. The $100K fee is a significant concern, but it's crucial to recognize its specific application: it is levied only on employers petitioning for consular processing. This means if you are already in the U.S. and your employer files for a Change of Status (COS), you are exempt from this particular fee.
The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, does not alter this fee exemption for COS. However, it's wise to stay informed about any procedural changes. With over 45,000 verified sponsors in the Get Wisa database, identifying employers who understand these distinctions is key.
- Amazon: With 55,150 H-1B filings in 2026, Amazon frequently sponsors F-1 OPT students for H-1B Change of Status, meaning these applicants are exempt from the $100K fee. - Microsoft: Microsoft's 34,626 H-1B filings in 2026 include many Change of Status petitions for individuals already in the U.S. on OPT, avoiding the $100K consular fee. - Google: Google, with 33,416 H-1B applications in 2026, also utilizes Change of Status for OPT graduates, confirming their exemption from the $100K consular processing fee.
Q: Can F-1 OPT students in Washington avoid the $100K H-1B fee?
A: Yes, F-1 OPT students in Washington applying for H-1B via Change of Status are exempt from the $100K fee.
Q: When does the $100K H-1B fee apply?
A: The $100K fee applies exclusively to H-1B petitions filed for consular processing, not for Change of Status applications.
Q: Does the new I-129 form affect the $100K fee exemption for OPT students?
A: No, the new I-129 form (mandatory April 2026) does not change the exemption for F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status.
Q: How can I verify if my employer is exempt from the $100K fee?
A: Confirm with your employer if your H-1B petition is a Change of Status (exempt) or Consular Processing (subject to fee).
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Yes, F-1 OPT students in Washington applying for H-1B via Change of Status are exempt from the $100K fee.
The $100K fee applies exclusively to H-1B petitions filed for consular processing, not for Change of Status applications.
No, the new I-129 form (mandatory April 2026) does not change the exemption for F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status.
Confirm with your employer if your H-1B petition is a Change of Status (exempt) or Consular Processing (subject to fee).