Understand the specific fee structure for F-1 OPT students changing status to H-1B.
International students on F-1 OPT often face confusion regarding the $100K H-1B fee. This page clarifies that F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status (COS) to H-1B are exempt from this specific fee, providing essential clarity for your application.
| 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 |
| FY2027 Lottery Registration | Closed March 19, 2026 | New |
| Total H-1B Registrations (FY27) | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| PERM Processing Time | 503 days (average) | ↑ 15 days |
| PWD Processing Time | 3-4 months (average) | Stable |
Our analysis confirms that the $100K fee is a specific surcharge for employers petitioning for H-1B visas through consular processing. For F-1 OPT students already in the U.S. and applying for a Change of Status, this fee does not apply, simplifying their transition.
Always confirm the exact filing method with your sponsoring employer. If you are already in the U.S. and your employer files for a Change of Status, you are exempt from the $100K fee. This distinction is critical for accurate budgeting.
The H-1B fee structure can be a source of anxiety for international professionals. In 2026, it's crucial to understand that the $100K fee is a specific surcharge applicable only when an H-1B visa is obtained through consular processing abroad. For F-1 OPT students in the U.S. who are transitioning to H-1B via a Change of Status (COS) filing, this fee is not applicable.
This distinction is vital for accurate financial planning and avoiding unnecessary concerns. While the FY2027 lottery saw fewer registrations, the clarity on fee structures remains paramount. Get Wisa provides data-driven insights to help you navigate these complex aspects of the H-1B process.
- **Amazon:** Filed 55,150 H-1B petitions in 2026. For F-1 OPT students changing status within the U.S., Amazon's filings do not incur the $100K fee. - **Microsoft:** Recorded 34,626 H-1B filings in 2026. Their Change of Status filings for F-1 OPT employees are exempt from the $100K surcharge. - **Google:** With 33,416 H-1B filings in 2026, Google ensures that F-1 OPT employees transitioning via Change of Status are not subject to the $100K fee.
Q: Is the $100K H-1B fee applicable to F-1 OPT students changing status?
A: No, F-1 OPT students changing status to H-1B while remaining in the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee, which applies only to consular processing.
Q: When does the $100K H-1B fee apply?
A: The $100K fee is a surcharge specifically for employers petitioning for H-1B visas through consular processing, not for Change of Status filings within the U.S.
Q: What are the standard fees for an H-1B Change of Status filing?
A: Standard fees include the Form I-129 filing fee and potentially premium processing fees ($2,965). The $100K fee is not among them for COS.
Q: Where can I find reliable information on H-1B fees?
A: USCIS official website and data-driven platforms like Get Wisa provide accurate details on H-1B fees and their applicability based on filing type.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →No, F-1 OPT students changing status to H-1B while remaining in the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee, which applies only to consular processing.
The $100K fee is a surcharge specifically for employers petitioning for H-1B visas through consular processing, not for Change of Status filings within the U.S.
Standard fees include the Form I-129 filing fee and potentially premium processing fees ($2,965). The $100K fee is not among them for COS.
USCIS official website and data-driven platforms like Get Wisa provide accurate details on H-1B fees and their applicability based on filing type.