In response to the upcoming implementation of US President Donald Trump’s changes to the H-1B visa program, tech companies Amazon and Microsoft have issued directives to their employees. These companies have advised their foreign employees holding H-1B and H-4 visas to return to the United States immediately and remain there.
Amazon sent internal communications to its staff, urging H-1B visa holders already in the US to stay put. It also advised those outside the country to return before the September 21 deadline, specifically at 12:00 AM EDT. “If you have H-1B status and are in the US, stay in the country for now,” Amazon’s note stated. The company also recommended that all H-1B and H-4 visa holders return to the US by the specified deadline.
Microsoft also circulated an internal email, expressing similar concerns. The email stated that H-1B and H-4 visa holders should stay in the US for the foreseeable future and return before the deadline. “H-1B visa holders should stay in the US for the foreseeable future,” Microsoft’s communication read. “We also recommend H-4 visa holders remain in the US. We strongly recommend that all H-1B and H-4 visa holders return to the US by tomorrow, before the deadline,” the company added.
These warnings come as a result of President Trump’s new presidential proclamation titled, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers.” This proclamation introduces a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications, starting September 21. The administration aims to counter what it sees as misuse of the H-1B program, particularly by IT outsourcing firms. These firms are accused of displacing American workers and suppressing wages.
The proclamation contends that the original purpose of the H-1B program, to bring in skilled foreign talent, has been undermined. The administration claims that low-wage H-1B hires have negatively impacted American graduates. It also cites national security concerns, pointing to investigations into visa fraud and money laundering involving companies that rely heavily on the program. Under the order, employers must now provide proof of payment when filing H-1B petitions, with enforcement by the US Departments of State and Homeland Security, although some exceptions exist for cases of national interest.
