U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to introduce a steep $100,000 application fee for H-1B worker visas, a move that could have sweeping implications for the American technology industry. According to a White House official, the president is expected to sign a proclamation as early as Friday that would restrict entry under the H-1B program unless the hefty fee is paid.
The H-1B visa program, which allows U.S. companies to hire skilled foreign professionals, has long been a lifeline for the tech sector, with workers from India and China making up the majority of applicants. Industry leaders warn that the proposed fee could significantly limit access to global talent, increasing costs for businesses that rely heavily on specialized skills.
Trump’s decision is part of his broader immigration crackdown, a central theme of his administration and a key rallying point for his conservative base. While the H-1B program has faced criticism from some who argue it displaces American workers, the tech industry has consistently defended it, pointing out its crucial role in driving innovation and growth.
The proposed $100,000 fee is already drawing sharp reactions from across the political and business spectrum, with analysts predicting legal challenges and potential pushback from Silicon Valley, which contributed millions of dollars to Trump’s campaign.
If implemented, the move could mark one of the most consequential changes to U.S. immigration policy in recent years, reshaping how companies recruit talent and how skilled workers around the world view opportunities in the United States.
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.