Trump’s Green Card Pledge for Foreign Graduates Resurfaces

Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Sparks Panic, Old Green Card Promise Goes Viral.President Donald Trump signed a surprise proclamation imposing a massive new fee on H-1B visas. The $100,000 fee for new applicants was announced on Saturday. It takes effect immediately, creating widespread anxiety.The move has triggered urgent advisories from major US tech firms. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon advised employees to return to the US quickly. Amid the uproar, an old Trump promise about green cards has resurfaced online.

Understanding The New H-1B Visa Fee Rule

The new rule imposes a one-time fee of $100,000 on new H-1B visa petitions. It applies specifically to applications filed on or after September 21st. The White House clarified it does not impact current visa holders or renewals.This clarification came from spokesperson Karoline Leavitt on social media. She stated the fee is not an annual charge. According to Reuters, the policy is scheduled to remain in effect for one year.Major corporations reacted swiftly to the news. Microsoft urged its H-1B employees abroad to return before the deadline. Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and JPMorgan issued similar internal guidance.

Trump’s Contradictory Green Card Promise Surfaces

As news of the fee spread, an old video clip began circulating online. It showed Trump speaking to a group of tech investors in June 2024. In the interview, he made a surprising promise to foreign graduates.He stated that college graduates should get a green card automatically with their diploma. This would provide a direct path to permanent residency for millions. The viral clip highlights a stark contrast to the new fee announcement.This proposal from last year has not been repeated publicly since. The administration’s current focus appears to be on the new visa cost. The policy shift has created significant uncertainty for foreign workers and tech companies.The immediate reality is a substantial new financial barrier for new applicants. This has caused panic among those awaiting visa processing. The long-term impact on the US tech industry remains unclear.

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The new H-1B visa fee represents a major shift in US immigration policy. Its sudden announcement has created global ripples of concern. The future for foreign tech talent in America now faces a significant new hurdle.

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Who does the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee apply to?

The fee applies only to new H-1B visa applicants. It does not affect current visa holders or those seeking renewals. The White House has confirmed this distinction.

What did Trump promise about green cards for graduates?

In a 2024 interview, Trump promised automatic green cards for foreign college graduates. He said it should be part of their diploma. This proposal has not been implemented.

How are tech companies responding to the new fee?

Major firms like Microsoft and Amazon issued urgent advisories to employees. They advised H-1B holders outside the US to return before the deadline. The guidance aimed to avoid the new fee.

Is the H-1B visa fee an annual charge?

No, the White House clarified it is a one-time fee. It applies only to the initial petition for a new visa. It is not an annual recurring cost for workers.

How long will the new visa fee rule last?

The rule is scheduled to remain in effect for one year. The administration could extend it if deemed in the national interest. Its expiration date is set for September 2026.