Trump's Immigration Crackdown Slaps $100k Fee on High-Skill Workers

TRUMP'S CRACKDOWN ON HIGH-SKILL IMMIGRATION WILL MAKE AMERICANS POORER Washington D.C. - President Donald Trump signed an executive order on September 19, 2025, imposing a $100,000 fee on new applications for H-1B visas, a move that critics argue will harm the US economy and make Americans poorer. The H-1B program, which allows American employers to hire foreign workers with rare intellectual abilities, has been a contentious issue in recent years. Trump's administration claims the new policy is necessary to protect American jobs and ensure that companies are not exploiting cheap labor. However, experts and lawmakers from both parties disagree, arguing that the move will have far-reaching consequences for the US economy. "This is a terrible solution to a real problem," said Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY), who has long been an advocate for immigration reform. "By imposing such a high fee on H-1B visas, we're essentially pricing out talented foreign workers and making it harder for American companies to compete globally." According to the US Chamber of Commerce, which represents over 3 million businesses across the country, the new policy will have a devastating impact on the tech industry. "This move is a clear example of how government policies can stifle innovation and growth," said Suzanne Clark, the Chamber's president and CEO. "We urge the administration to reconsider this decision and work with us to find a more balanced solution." The Trump administration argues that the new policy will help American workers by ensuring that companies are not replacing them with cheaper foreign labor. However, experts say that the H-1B program is essential for filling skills gaps in the US workforce. "The reality is that there are many jobs in the US that require specialized skills and expertise," said Dr. Vivek Wadhwa, a renowned expert on immigration policy. "By limiting access to these visas, we're essentially telling American companies that they can't hire the best talent from around the world." The new policy has sparked widespread criticism from lawmakers, business leaders, and experts across the country. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Trump's crackdown on high-skill immigration will have far-reaching consequences for the US economy. Background: The H-1B program was established in 1990 to allow American employers to hire foreign workers with rare intellectual abilities. The program has been subject to controversy and criticism over the years, with some arguing that it allows companies to exploit cheap labor and others claiming that it is essential for filling skills gaps in the US workforce. Impact: The new policy will have a significant impact on the tech industry, which relies heavily on H-1B visas. According to the US Chamber of Commerce, the policy will lead to job losses, reduced innovation, and decreased economic growth. Next developments: As the debate continues, lawmakers from both parties are expected to introduce legislation aimed at reversing Trump's decision. The issue is likely to be a major point of contention in the upcoming election cycle. *Reporting by Vox.*