In this episode of The Startup Visa® Podcast, host Tahmina Watson sits down with Efren Hernandez, a longtime USCIS policy leader and Founder of EH3 Immigration Consulting, to unpack the implications of the proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B visas—and what it could mean for employers, startups, and foreign national professionals.
Efren brings more than 32 years of immigration experience, including decades at the former INS and USCIS, where he held senior leadership roles and helped shape major employment-based immigration policies. Now working in the private sector, he offers rare, behind-the-scenes insight into how immigration policy is formed—and how dramatic fee increases could disrupt access to talent and innovation.
In this candid conversation, Tahmina and Efren discuss the policy rationale behind the proposed fee, the potential economic impact on startups and employers, and the broader consequences for the U.S. immigration system if cost becomes a barrier to hiring global talent.
Listen to the full episode here!
Connect with Efren:
Linkedin: (5) Efren Hernandez III | LinkedIn
Special thanks to our series sponsor, Pinnacle Plan Writing for making these episodes possible. You can visit their website Pinnacle Plan Writing
🎙️ Tahmina Talks Immigration and The Startup Visa Podcast Series are produced and edited by Tamanna Jahan.
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🛠️ Dive into the Startup Visa Series — your toolbox for success
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