Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Triggers Tech Giants’ Ultimatum To Employees On Travel Rules

H-1B visa Fee News:  Microsoft, JP Morgan, and Amazon have urged their H-1B visa holders not to leave the country after the US government announced new fees. These companies are advising their employees to stay safe and avoid traveling abroad after the Trump administration announced an annual fee of US$100,000. This move could have a serious impact on Indian IT and professional workers, as Indians constitute a large proportion of H-1B visa holders.

Trump's new order for H-1B visa holders

US President Donald Trump has announced an annual fee of US$100,000 on H-1B visa holders. This move is being seen as an effort to curb "systematic abuse" in the visa program. Previously, the administrative fee for H-1B visas was only US$1,500. Trump stated that taking advantage of foreign workers and employing American workers at lower wages has become a national security threat.

Impact on Consumers, Companies and Workers

The H-1B visa program was intended to bring high-skilled workers to American industries, but it has instead replaced American workers. This could pose a major crisis for professionals from India and other countries, as 72% of the 400,000 H-1B visas issued in 2022-2023 were awarded to Indians. The sudden increase in visa fees will force companies to readjust their business models, and Indian IT workers will bear the brunt of the impact.

Tech Giants Warn Visa Holders

Major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and JP Morgan have asked H-1B visa holders to avoid leaving the country. Amazon has asked its employees to return to the US before September 21 , when the new fee will come into effect. Microsoft and JP Morgan have also clarified that they are urging H-1B and H-4 visa holders not to travel and to remain in the country until clear guidelines are issued regarding the situation.

Political reaction and criticism

Democratic Party leader Raja Krishnamoorthi called Trump's order a "stupid attempt to cut off high-skilled workers who have long supported American workers." He said the order would hinder America's innovation and growth, as these workers are crucial to industry.

What's next?

The impact of the new tariff policy on the US economy and the working community remains to be seen. This move has become a source of particular concern for Indian professionals, who play a key role in American industries.