Trump Softens Stance on H-1B Visa, Emphasizes Need for Global Talent
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In a surprise move, US President Donald Trump has softened his stance on the H-1B visa program, acknowledging that the country needs skilled immigrant workers to fill certain roles. Speaking with Fox News, Trump argued that the US cannot simply retrain long-term unemployed Americans for complex positions in manufacturing and defense. He emphasized that the country needs to attract talented individuals from around the world, saying, 'We also do have to bring talent into the country.' When asked if America has enough talent, Trump replied, 'No, you don't... You don't have certain talents and you have to... People have to learn.' This shift comes amidst the Trump administration's efforts to reform the H-1B visa program. The administration has implemented a fee hike for new H-1B visa petitions, requiring an additional $100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility. However, current visa holders and petitions submitted before the September deadline will remain unaffected. The $100,000 payment requirement applies to new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, including those for the 2026 lottery. Indian professionals, including technology workers and physicians, are among the largest cohort of H-1B visa holders. The Trump administration's move has sparked debate on the role of foreign workers in the US labor market.
