The H-1B visa issue has created a stir across the world. Everyone is asking the same question: why did Donald Trump suddenly increase the H-1B visa fee overnight? In response, the White House released a fact sheet.
What the Fact Sheet Says
According to the White House, many American companies hire foreign workers on H-1B visas at lower salaries, while laying off a large number of Americans.
The fact sheet highlights that in 2023, the demand for H-1B visas in the IT sector was 32%, but it has now risen to 65%. This, it says, shows that H-1B visas are contributing to rising unemployment among American youth.
Currently, 6.1% of fresh computer science graduates and 7.5% of computer engineering graduates are unemployed. For those with degrees in history and other fields, the unemployment figures are even higher.
Job Losses Among Americans
The fact sheet claims that only 44.5% of jobs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields have grown. However, between 2000 and 2019, the number of foreign workers in STEM sectors doubled.
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It also lists details of some companies:
| Company | Fiscal Year | H-1B Workers Hired | Americans Laid Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company 1 | FY 2025 | 5,189 | 16,000 |
| Company 2 | FY 2025 | 1,698 | 2,400 |
| Company 3 | FY 2022 | 25,075 | 27,000 |
| Company 4 | FY 2025 | 1,137 | 1,000 |
“America First” Policy
The White House stated that this decision is part of the “America First” policy. The U.S. government wants companies to prioritise American youth for jobs.
According to the fact sheet:
“Voters re-elected President Trump to put American workers first. He is working every day for this cause, negotiating new trade deals and bringing back manufacturing jobs to the U.S. Every American-born citizen must get employment opportunities.”
Rising Turmoil Over H-1B Visas
More than 70% of H-1B visas in the U.S. were previously granted to Indians. Now, however, applicants will have to pay $100,000 (about ₹90 lakh) in fees to obtain one. This order came into effect at midnight on Sunday.
Impact on India
The biggest impact of Trump’s decision will be felt in India, as 71% of H-1B visa holders are Indians, many of whom work at top companies like Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft. This sudden move has created unrest in the U.S. tech industry as well.
In response, the Indian Embassy in the U.S. has issued an emergency helpline number: +1 202 550 9931.