US Tech Firms Concerned Over Trump's H-1B Visa Fee Increase
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The recent announcement by Donald Trump to enforce a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas has shaken the US tech industry . Major companies such as Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and now Google have rushed to alert their international employees. Google, in particular, has issued a memo instructing staff currently outside the US to fly back by 21 September, Sunday, 12:01 AM and avoid non-essential international travel.
Urgent Return to the US
In a memo to its employees, Google has set a deadline for those outside the country, stating, 'If you are outside the US, please return by Sunday, September 21, at 12:01 AM.' The company's directive is a precautionary measure, anticipating potential difficulties for its H-1B visa holders. The memo explicitly warns of potential re-entry issues, noting, 'Under the new policy, you may face problems leaving the US or may not be granted re-entry.' The company has acknowledged that this may cause inconvenience but has pledged its support for its employees.
While the White House later clarified that the rule applies only to new H-1B applications and not to existing visa holders, companies are still playing it safe. Tech giants prefer to take no chances with employees’ re-entry and work permits, given the uncertainty in immigration policies.
India is the largest source of H-1B visa holders, with thousands of skilled professionals working across American tech firms. Any changes in visa rules directly affect them. With this sudden move, Indian employees are among those most anxious about the future of their careers in the US.
The Trump administration has defended its decision, arguing that H-1B visas impact local employment by allowing foreign workers to take jobs that could otherwise go to American citizens. This justification has only intensified debate across the global tech sector.
Urgent Return to the US
In a memo to its employees, Google has set a deadline for those outside the country, stating, 'If you are outside the US, please return by Sunday, September 21, at 12:01 AM.' The company's directive is a precautionary measure, anticipating potential difficulties for its H-1B visa holders. The memo explicitly warns of potential re-entry issues, noting, 'Under the new policy, you may face problems leaving the US or may not be granted re-entry.' The company has acknowledged that this may cause inconvenience but has pledged its support for its employees.
Uncertainty Despite White House Clarification
While the White House later clarified that the rule applies only to new H-1B applications and not to existing visa holders, companies are still playing it safe. Tech giants prefer to take no chances with employees’ re-entry and work permits, given the uncertainty in immigration policies.
Impact on Indian Professionals
India is the largest source of H-1B visa holders, with thousands of skilled professionals working across American tech firms. Any changes in visa rules directly affect them. With this sudden move, Indian employees are among those most anxious about the future of their careers in the US.
Trump Administration’s Stand
The Trump administration has defended its decision, arguing that H-1B visas impact local employment by allowing foreign workers to take jobs that could otherwise go to American citizens. This justification has only intensified debate across the global tech sector.
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