Big Tech Warns H-1B Workers: Stay Put Amid Trump's New Visa Fee Policy

Big Tech Tells H-1B Workers to Stay Put Amid Trump's New Policy In a surprise move, Big Tech companies are advising their H-1B visa holders to remain in the United States or return from overseas before Sunday, when President Donald Trump's new policy imposing a 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications takes effect. According to reports by CNBC, Amazon and Microsoft have sent memos to their employees warning them that international travel could put their worker status at risk. The memo from Amazon advised H-1B holders to cancel future travel plans and remain in the US for the time being. "We are advising our employees with H-1B or H-4 visas to return from overseas before 12:01 a.m. ET on September 21," an Amazon spokesperson confirmed. Microsoft's memo, obtained by CNBC, similarly warned that the Trump administration's policy is structured as a travel restriction and international travel could jeopardize their worker status. "We are advising our employees with H-1B visas to cancel any future travel plans and remain in the US for the time being," a Microsoft spokesperson said. The new policy, which was announced by President Trump on Friday, has sent shockwaves through industries and governments worldwide. The fee, which will be imposed on all H-1B visa applications, is expected to raise significant revenue for the US government but has been criticized by tech companies and immigration advocates as a barrier to attracting top talent from around the world. The H-1B visa program allows foreign laborers in specialty occupations to work in the United States. The program has been a crucial source of talent for Big Tech companies, which rely heavily on skilled workers from abroad to fill gaps in their workforce. "This policy is a clear attempt by the administration to restrict immigration and limit access to the US job market," said FWD.us, a non-profit organization that advocates for comprehensive immigration reform. "We are concerned about the impact this will have on our economy and our ability to attract top talent from around the world." The new policy has sparked confusion among industries and governments worldwide. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will begin accepting H-1B visa applications on October 1, but with the added fee. As the clock ticks down to Sunday's deadline, Big Tech companies are scrambling to advise their employees on how to navigate the new policy. "We are working closely with our employees and the US government to ensure a smooth transition," said an Amazon spokesperson. The implications of this policy are far-reaching and will likely have significant consequences for industries that rely heavily on H-1B visa holders. As one tech executive noted, "This policy is not just about immigration; it's about innovation and competitiveness. We need access to the best talent from around the world to stay ahead in the global economy." The future of the H-1B visa program remains uncertain as the Trump administration's new policy takes effect. One thing is clear: Big Tech companies are taking steps to protect their workforce, but the long-term implications of this policy will likely be felt for years to come. Background and Context The H-1B visa program was established in 1990 to allow foreign laborers in specialty occupations to work in the United States. The program has been a crucial source of talent for Big Tech companies, which rely heavily on skilled workers from abroad to fill gaps in their workforce. In recent years, the number of H-1B visa applications has increased significantly, with over 200,000 applications submitted annually. Additional Perspectives Industry experts and immigration advocates are weighing in on the implications of this policy. "This policy is a clear attempt by the administration to restrict immigration and limit access to the US job market," said FWD.us, a non-profit organization that advocates for comprehensive immigration reform. "We are concerned about the impact this will have on our economy and our ability to attract top talent from around the world." Current Status and Next Developments The new policy takes effect Sunday, when President Trump's administration begins imposing a 100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications. Big Tech companies are advising their employees to remain in the United States or return from overseas before the deadline. The future of the H-1B visa program remains uncertain as the implications of this policy become clear. Sources CNBC: "Amazon and Microsoft warn employees with H-1B visas not to travel abroad" US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): "H-1B Visa Program" FWD.us: "Statement on Trump Administration's New Policy" *Reporting by Gizmodo.*