- The Trump administration has imposed a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, significantly raising costs for major employers like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and IBM.
- Supporters say the measure will protect American jobs and ensure only highly skilled workers are hired, while critics warn it could drive companies to move jobs overseas and discourage international students.
- H-1B visas, granted by lottery, require a degree and a U.S. job offer, with Amazon the largest recipient in 2024.
The Trump administration has imposed a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, drastically raising costs for companies that hire foreign tech workers. President Trump signed an executive order requiring the payment and restricting entry without it, saying: “We’re going to keep productive people in our country, and companies are prepared to pay for that — and they’re happy about it.”
The fee will impact major employers like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and IBM, which already pay up to $4,500 per application. Supporters say the measure will ensure only “truly extraordinary” workers enter the U.S., while protecting American jobs.
Critics warn it could push companies to shift jobs overseas and deter international students. Stuart Anderson of the National Foundation for American Policy said higher costs may drive firms to relocate research roles abroad.
H-1B visas, granted by lottery, require a U.S. job offer and at least a bachelor’s degree. In 2024, Amazon secured over 10,000 visas, making it the largest recipient. Bloomberg also reported Trump will direct the Labor Secretary to revise wage rules tied to the program.
Leave a Reply