Clarifying the $100K fee and its exemptions for F-1 OPT students during H-1B initial filings in 2026.
For F-1 OPT students navigating the H-1B initial filing process in 2026, understanding the $100K fee and its exemptions is critical. Get Wisa clarifies when this fee applies and how F-1 OPT students can avoid it, ensuring a smoother application journey.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| $100K Fee Applicability | Consular Processing ONLY | Clarified |
| F-1 OPT Change of Status Fee | EXEMPT from $100K fee | Exempt |
| Top Sponsor: Cognizant | 26,700 H-1B Filings | N/A |
| FY2027 Lottery Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that many F-1 OPT students are confused about the $100K fee. The key distinction is whether the H-1B process involves consular processing (fee applies) or a Change of Status within the U.S. (fee does not apply). Employers with high filing volumes, like Cognizant, often handle both scenarios, making clear communication vital.
If your employer is petitioning for your H-1B while you are on F-1 OPT in the U.S., you are undergoing a Change of Status and are exempt from the $100K fee. Confirm this with your employer's legal counsel to avoid unnecessary confusion or charges.
For F-1 OPT students aiming for H-1B sponsorship in 2026, understanding the $100K fee is paramount. This fee is specifically levied on employers who petition for H-1B visas for individuals who will be processed at a U.S. consulate abroad. Crucially, if you are already in the U.S. on F-1 OPT and your employer files for a Change of Status, you are exempt from this $100K fee.
With overall FY2027 lottery odds at 35.3%, securing sponsorship is competitive. Companies like Cognizant, with 26,700 H-1B filings, are major players. Verifying their sponsorship practices and understanding fee structures through Get Wisa can provide clarity during your H-1B initial filing process.
Here are examples of companies that are significant H-1B sponsors and handle various types of filings, illustrating the context for the $100K fee:
Q: Does the $100K fee apply to F-1 OPT students changing status to H-1B?
A: No, F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status to H-1B within the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee. This fee applies only to consular processing.
Q: When is the $100K fee for H-1B filings applicable?
A: The $100K fee is applicable only to employers filing H-1B petitions for individuals who will be processed at a U.S. consulate abroad.
Q: How can I confirm if my employer is exempt from the $100K fee for my H-1B?
A: If you are in the U.S. on F-1 OPT and your employer files for a Change of Status, you are exempt. Confirm with your employer's legal counsel.
Q: Which companies are major H-1B sponsors and might handle both fee scenarios?
A: Companies like Cognizant, Infosys, and Tata, with thousands of H-1B filings, often handle both consular processing and Change of Status petitions.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →No, F-1 OPT students undergoing a Change of Status to H-1B within the U.S. are exempt from the $100K fee. This fee applies only to consular processing.
The $100K fee is applicable only to employers filing H-1B petitions for individuals who will be processed at a U.S. consulate abroad.
If you are in the U.S. on F-1 OPT and your employer files for a Change of Status, you are exempt. Confirm with your employer's legal counsel.
Companies like Cognizant, Infosys, and Tata, with thousands of H-1B filings, often handle both consular processing and Change of Status petitions.