Trump signs proclamation imposing annual $100k fee on H-1B visas
6 hours ago
- #US tech industry
- #H-1B visas
- #immigration policy
- Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications.
- The fee is expected to impact the US tech industry, which heavily relies on workers from India and China.
- US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that major tech companies were briefed on the new fee.
- Trump emphasized training American graduates instead of hiring foreign workers.
- The H-1B visa program is crucial for the tech sector, with two-thirds of jobs being computer-related.
- Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta Platforms are among the top recipients of H-1B visas.
- Critics argue the program suppresses wages, while supporters like Elon Musk say it fills talent gaps.
- The new fee could deter top global talent and increase costs for companies, especially startups.
- Immigration experts question the legal authority of the executive branch to impose such a fee.
- The Trump administration has previously taken steps to curb legal immigration, including travel bans and visa restrictions.