01. October 2025
Admin
U.S. Embassy Confirms Singapore Citizens Do Not Owe US$100,000 for H-1B1 Visa
The U.S. Embassy in Singapore has issued a clarification stating that **Singapore citizens are not required to pay US$100,000** or any exorbitant sum to secure an **H-1B1 visa**. The statement comes in response to recent misinformation circulating about visa fees and requirements.
Quick Insight: The H-1B1 visa is a specialized U.S. work visa available to citizens of Singapore and Chile under free trade agreements. Standard application fees apply — but a six-figure charge is not one of them.
1. What Is H-1B1 & Who Qualifies?
• The **H-1B1 visa** is a variant of the U.S. H-1B category, specifically for Singapore and Chile under their respective trade agreements.
• It allows professionals in specialty occupations to live and work in the U.S.
• Unlike typical H-1B, it may have different annual quotas and renewal conditions, but the principles of specialty employment still apply.
2. Embassy’s Clarification
• The U.S. Embassy categorically rejected claims that Singapore citizens must pay US$100,000 in visa fees.
• It confirmed that only standard application and processing fees are required — those published in official U.S. visa fee schedules.
• Applicants are urged to rely only on validated sources (embassy official sites) for visa fee and process information.
3. What Applicants Should Know
• Always verify fees through U.S. Department of State or U.S. Embassy official websites.
• Beware of fraudulent agents or rumors claiming exorbitant “processing fees” or bribes.
• Keep copies of visa fee receipts and confirmation documents.
• If uncertain, contact the consular section or official visa support lines before payment.
Final Thoughts
The denial by the U.S. Embassy helps correct misinformation about visa fees and protects prospective applicants from potential scams. While the H-1B1 visa process still requires careful compliance with immigration rules and fee schedules, one thing is clear: there is **no US$100,000 charge** mandated by law or policy.
