When US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to add a $100,000 fee for applications for H-1B visas, a program for skilled foreign workers, Abhishek Singh immediately worried he would have to relocate.
Mr. Singh, a software engineering manager based in the Seattle area, knew that his employer—a US startup—would not be in a position to pay the fee on top of his current salary.
Although a recent White House clarification stated the fee only applies to future applicants, the implications highlight significant concerns for many businesses, especially startups, that could face severe financial strain amidst new regulatory burdens.
The H-1B program, often associated with tech giants, has been pivotal for many organizations, including non-profits like Ryther in Seattle, which has struggled with workforce shortages in behavioral health. Karen Brady, its CEO, noted that the fee could prevent them from hiring skilled workers, jeopardizing their service capacity.
As companies grapple with growing concerns over immigration policy, the $100,000 fee raises alarming prospects regarding potential offshoring and declining innovation. Experts predict that these fees may not just curtail employment opportunities but also further shrink the labor force, adversely affecting US productivity.
Concerns expressed by professionals like John Skrentny from UC San Diego speak volumes about the possible stifling effects on innovation, especially for startups reliant on attracting a diverse workforce. Simultaneously, while large corporations may navigate these changes, smaller firms fear being overshadowed and unable to compete.
