Trump Administration’s New H-1B Visa Fee: What You Need to Know
In a significant move that could impact the U.S. tech industry, President Donald Trump has introduced a hefty $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visa applications. This change aims to address concerns about wage suppression while simultaneously prioritizing the admission of skilled workers who can benefit the nation.
New Executive Order Details
President Trump has signed an executive order enforcing the $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications. Unlike past fees, this is not a one-time charge; companies will need to pay it annually for each employee brought into the United States under this visa for up to six years.
Restrictions and Exemptions
The Secretary of Homeland Security will implement stricter approval processes for visa applications from individuals currently outside the U.S. Only those willing to pay the fee will be considered, although there could be case-by-case exemptions deemed to be in the national interest.
Impact on the Tech Sector
The tech industry is one of the largest beneficiaries of the H-1B program. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have thousands of employees holding these visas. For instance, Amazon employs over 10,000 H-1B workers, while Microsoft and Meta each have between 4,000 and 5,500 visa holders.
Allegations of Wage Suppression
In its announcement, the White House alleges that some employers have manipulated the H-1B visa system to artificially suppress wages. They particularly underscore that IT firms have significantly disadvantaged American workers in computer-related roles.
The New “Gold Card” Visa Program
In conjunction with this new fee, Trump has introduced a “Gold Card” visa program targeting high-value immigrants. This program prioritizes entry for entrepreneurs and investors who can contribute $1 million or $2 million, depending on whether they apply as individuals or corporations.
Conclusion
The introduction of the $100,000 annual H-1B visa fee marks a transformative moment in U.S. immigration policy, particularly for the tech sector. As companies adjust, legal challenges are anticipated, which could further shape the future landscape of skilled immigration in the United States.
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