U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a major change to the H-1B visas program, introducing a $100,000 fee per year for companies that sponsor skilled foreign workers.
The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to hire professionals like engineers, scientists, and computer programmers for up to six years. Tech companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and Apple are the largest users of the program.
Alongside the new rule, Trump also introduced a “gold card” visa, offering U.S. permanent residency to anyone who can pay $1 million.
New Zealand Launches Business Investor Visa 2025 for Pakistanis
Impact on Companies
The new fee is expected to significantly change the way companies hire foreign workers. While large corporations may be able to afford the cost, start-ups and smaller firms could struggle, potentially leading them to move jobs overseas.
Critics warn this could reduce U.S. competitiveness in areas like artificial intelligence, software development, and engineering, while countries like China and India benefit from top talent staying home.
Support and Criticism
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the decision, saying it would push companies to train American workers instead of hiring from abroad. “Train Americans. Stop bringing in people to take our jobs,” he said.
However, immigration experts have questioned the legality of the fee, pointing out that Congress has only allowed fees to cover visa processing costs, not to generate extra revenue.
Global Reactions
India, which accounts for 71% of H-1B visas, is expected to be most affected by the decision, followed by China. Analysts believe the move could also harm the U.S. tech industry’s ability to attract the best and brightest talent.
FAQs
1. What is the new H-1B visa fee?
The U.S. government will now charge companies $100,000 per year, per worker for sponsoring H-1B visas.
2. Who will be most affected by this change?
Tech companies that rely on foreign workers, especially start-ups and smaller firms, will face the biggest challenges.
3. Why did Trump introduce this fee?
The administration says the fee will ensure only highly skilled professionals are hired, while encouraging companies to train American workers.
4. Which countries benefit most from H-1B visas?
India is the largest beneficiary, making up over 70% of H-1B H-1B visas workers, followed by China.
5. What is the “gold card” visa?
It is a new visa option that grants U.S. permanent residency to individuals who can pay $1 million.
