President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that will impose a $10,000 fee on visas issued to skilled foreign workers, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. The policy change comes amid growing concerns within the Trump administration about the potential negative impact of the H-1B visa program on American jobs. Immigration hard-liners, including members of the Republican Party and conservative lawmakers, have long argued that the program allows companies to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor.
Industry leaders and business groups have raised concerns that the fee could discourage qualified foreign workers from entering the U.S., potentially leading to a talent shortage in key sectors such as technology and engineering. The policy is expected to face legal challenges from advocacy groups and industry representatives who argue that the fee is an unnecessary burden on both employers and employees. However, Trump’s administration maintains that the fee is a necessary step to protect American workers and ensure that foreign workers are not used to undercut domestic wages.
Analysts predict that the move could have both immediate and long-term effects on the U.S. economy. While some industries may suffer from a potential talent shortage, others, particularly those reliant on skilled foreign labor, may seek alternative solutions such as automation or outsourcing. The policy also raises questions about its compliance with international labor standards and could have diplomatic implications with countries that are major sources of skilled immigrants.
In a press briefing following the announcement, Trump emphasized that the new fee was a necessary measure to protect American jobs and strengthen the U.S. economy. He also called on Congress to pass legislation that would further restrict the use of H-1B visas and increase penalties for companies that violate immigration laws. The administration has also announced plans to increase the number of visas available for low-skilled workers, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from both supporters and critics of the policy.