Large Tech Companies Urge Employees with H-1B Visas to Remain in the U.S. Amid Trump’s Visa Changes
In response to President Donald Trump’s recent proclamation regarding H-1B visa applications, major tech companies such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have advised employees holding these visas to stay in the United States and avoid foreign travel. The proclamation, signed by Trump, mandates employers to pay a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications.
According to reports, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have sent out emails to employees with H-1B visas, instructing them to refrain from traveling abroad for now. Those who are already traveling have been urged to return before the proclamation goes into effect at 12:01 am Eastern on Sunday.
Business Insider has released memos from Amazon and Microsoft, while Sources published a similar memo from Google. Microsoft has declined to provide any comments on the matter. JS is currently seeking responses from Amazon and Google.
Government data indicates that Amazon has been the top recipient of H-1B visas this fiscal year, followed by Tata Consultancy Services, Microsoft, Meta, and Apple. Google holds the sixth position in terms of H-1B visa approvals.
On the other hand, a White House official informed Axios that the $100,000 fee will only be applicable to new H-1B visa applicants and will not affect existing visa holders or renewal applications.
