Overview
- The U.S. Department of Labor released a video alleging H-1B abuse has stolen opportunities from young Americans, displaying a pie chart that shows India at 72% of approvals and promoting Project Firewall audits.
- President Trump’s September 19 proclamation imposes a $100,000 charge on new H-1B petitions; the White House says it is a one-time fee that does not apply to current visa holders.
- Updated guidance from Homeland Security clarifies exemptions for certain filings, including change-of-status requests and extensions of stay.
- Representatives Jimmy Panetta, Ami Bera, Salud Carbajal, and Julie Johnson urged suspension of the order, warning it would harm AI competitiveness and the U.S.–India partnership, with India accounting for roughly 71% of holders last year.
- Industry responses include sponsorship pauses, and Florida directed state universities to stop hiring H-1B workers, while DHS ended automatic EAD extensions for renewals filed on or after October 30.