Walmart Halts H-1B Visa Hiring Following New $100,000 US Fee

Walmart has paused job offers for candidates requiring H-1B work visas. This decision was reported by Bloomberg and affects corporate hiring. The move comes directly after a major US policy change.

The policy shift is a new $100,000 fee for H-1B applications. The Trump administration introduced this fee last month. Its stated goal is to overhaul the program and curb its overuse.

Impact on Walmart’s Workforce and Corporate Hiring

Walmart is the largest user of H-1B visas among major retail chains. Government data shows the company employs an estimated 2,390 H-1B visa holders. This number is small compared to its total workforce of 1.6 million.

The hiring pause primarily impacts corporate employees. It does not affect the vast majority of store associates. A Walmart spokesperson confirmed the company is being thoughtful about its H-1B approach.

The company remains committed to hiring the best talent. This was stated in a conversation with Bloomberg. The new guideline is a direct response to the increased cost of visa sponsorship.

Broader Repercussions for the Tech and Retail Industries

The administration’s move has sent ripples through multiple industries. Technology and retail sectors that rely on specialized foreign workers are assessing the impact. Companies are now evaluating the financial feasibility of hiring H-1B candidates.

Walmart’s decision is seen as a significant indicator. Other large employers may follow suit with similar hiring pauses. The $100,000 fee creates a substantial new financial barrier for businesses.

The policy has been praised by some political supporters online. They view it as a measure that will open more jobs for American workers. They argue that if roles are not filled without the visa, they were not essential.

This hiring freeze marks a pivotal moment for US corporate immigration policy. The new $100,000 H-1B visa fee is already altering hiring landscapes. Its long-term effects on American companies and global talent acquisition remain to be fully seen.

Info at your fingertips

What is the H-1B visa program?

The H-1B program lets US employers hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. These jobs require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in fields like technology, medicine, and business. The program is designed for temporary employment.

Who is affected by Walmart’s new hiring policy?

The policy affects new job candidates for corporate roles who require H-1B visa sponsorship. It does not impact current Walmart employees who already hold H-1B visas. Store-level associates are also not affected by this change.

How many H-1B visa holders does Walmart currently employ?

According to government data, Walmart employs an estimated 2,390 H-1B visa holders. This figure makes it the largest user of the visa among major retail chains. Its total workforce, however, is about 1.6 million people.

How does Walmart’s use of H-1B visas compare to tech companies?

Walmart’s use is significant but dwarfed by major tech firms. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have a much greater reliance on H-1B visa holders. These tech giants sponsor thousands more visas annually.

Why did the Trump administration introduce a $100,000 H-1B fee?

The fee was introduced to overhaul the H-1B program. The administration’s goal is to curb what it sees as overuse of the visa. The high cost is intended to encourage companies to hire American workers first.

Trusted Sources

Bloomberg, US Department of Labor.