New Visa Fee Creates Uncertainty for International Students – Level 2

International students who are about to graduate are facing a major challenge. The government recently announced a very high application fee of $100,000 for the H-1B professional work visa. This sudden change has created a lot of uncertainty. One student from Wingate University, who graduates in December, said his plans were ruined by the news. He is now applying for a one-year work extension on his student visa, called Optional Practical Training. However, after that year is over, his future is unclear. Many international students are concerned that employers will stop offering sponsorship because of the high cost and complexity. An immigration attorney, William Hummel, is working with students in this situation. He says there are many unanswered questions about the new fee, including how it is supposed to be paid. He advises patience but also warns that this could cause a shortage of skilled workers in important fields like technology, banking, and healthcare, which would hurt the local economy.

New Words:

1. Application: A formal and usually written request for something, such as a job, a loan, or a visa.
Example: He submitted his application for the H-1B visa last month.

2. Sponsorship: The act of a company supporting an employee’s application for a work visa, often by handling the process and paying the fees.
Example: It is difficult for international students to get a job without company sponsorship.

3. Attorney: A person who is legally qualified to advise people about the law and represent them in court; a lawyer.
Example: The student hired an immigration attorney to help with his visa case.