In 2025, U.S companies hiring foreign talent faced a game-changing hurdle: a new $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas.
Once a reliable path to bringing skilled professionals stateside, this hefty cost has thrown recruiting plans into turmoil.
At RainTech, we understand this challenge deeply, coming from our founder's background as a software engineer who witnessed firsthand how Indonesia's talented tech pool was undervalued despite global demand.
That's why RainTech was born: to be the bridge connecting global companies with Indonesia's young, adaptable, and digitally savvy professionals who are ready to shine on the world stage.
H-1B Sponsorship: The Tried and True, But Costly Route
The H-1B visa has been the backbone for hiring experts in sector like tech, healthcare, and finance.
It allows companies to bring workers physically to the U.S and integrate them fully into the team.
However, the process involves complex paperwork, a lottery system, and now a staggering new application fee on top of existing filing and legal costs.
This sudden jump puts the cost per hire well into six figures, squeezing budgets especially at startups or mid-sized firms.
Add to this months-long visa processing delays, and hiring fast becomes a challenge.
Despite its hurdles, H-1B sponsorship still offers long-term benefits such as enabling employees to live and work in the U.S seamlessly, which may be essential for some roles.
Employer of Record (EOR): Flexibility Meets Compliance
RainTech specializes in Employer of Record services, supporting companies to hire Indonesian talent legally and efficiently without the visa complexities.
Instead of sponsoring visas, companies employ workers locally through an EOR, which handles compliance with Indonesian labor laws, payroll, taxes, and benefits administration.
This model saves high upfront visa expenses and offers faster onboarding, often within days or weeks.
For businesses squeezed by the $100,000 H-1B fee, EOR provides a predictable cost structure and mitigates risks of visa delays or travel restrictions.
Our deep expertise, combining recruitment, compliance, and cultural readiness training, ensures Indonesian talent is not just hired but prepared to thrive in global teams.
This approach bridges the communication and cultural gaps frequently faced by Indonesian professionals working internationally.
Blending Strategies: Hire Remote Now, Relocate Later
Many companies adopt hybrid hiring plans, onboarding candidates remotely via EOR first, then sponsoring their U.S. visas later when expansion budgets and timelines align.
This "try before you buy" option reduces upfront costs and lets employers test cultural and skills fit before making bigger commitments.
Why Indonesia? A Rising Tech Talent Hub
Indonesia's young, resilient workforce and rapidly growing digital ecosystem make it a competitive alternative to traditional global hiring hubs.
RainTech rigorously screens tech skills and cultivates global communication readiness, ensuring candidates meet international standards.
According to our co-founder with eight years of experience in recruitment and Employer of Record, RainTech embodies a dual commitment: supporting employers in global expansion while empowering Indonesian professionals to succeed worldwide.
This human-centered approach sets RainTech apart.
Making the Right Choice for Your Team: A Head-to-Head Comparison
To simplify your decision, consider how H-1B Visa Sponsorship and Employer of Record services stack up across key hiring dimensions:
Conclusion
The $100,000 H-1B visa fee marks a pivotal moment in global hiring.
While sponsoring H-1B visas is possible, companies should explore flexible models like Employer of Record to hire international professionals with less financial risks and more agility.
Adaptability is now key to sourcing talent worldwide efficiently and staying competitive.
Looking to build a remote team from Indonesia's top tech talent pool without visa hurdles?
Contact RainTech today because our Employer of Record (EOR) service offers fast, compliant hiring with ongoing support to ensure your success.
Don't stop here! Navigate the future of global employment and compliance with more insights from RainTech's expert team:
- Navigating Indonesian Payroll and Tax Compliance for Remote Employees
- Outsourcing and Employer of Record Trends in Indonesia: What Global Companies Need to Know
- Maximizing Cost Savings and Business Impact Through Remote Hiring in Indonesia
- Building Successful Remote Teams in Indonesia: Trends, Challenges, and Solutions
References:
- Remotefirst, How to Avoid H-1B Visa Hassles with an Employer of Record
- Safeguard Global, H-1B Visa Fees 2025: Avoid Costs with EOR Solutions
- Forrester, The Long-Term Impact of the $100,000 H-1B Fee? Higher IT Costs and More Offshore