UC warns Staff, Faculty Over Trump’s new H-1B Visa Order

The University of Southern California has warned faculty and staff on H-1B work visas to postpone any international travel in light of the Trump administration's recent changes to immigration policy. The change follows the White House's announcement of a new proclamation and tax schedule that could significantly impact foreign workers in the United States.

Trump's recent declaration

According to a recently signed presidential proclamation, any new H-1B petition filed after September 21 will be subject to a $100,000 fee. Although this rule does not apply to current H-1B holders, renewals, or amendments, it does encourage USC academics and staff, as well as those with similar visa status, to delay international travel.

This new rule, which will be in effect for a minimum of a year, aims to stop the misuse of the H-1B visa program, which allows US businesses to hire skilled foreign workers in specialized fields.

According to UC

“Out of an abundance of caution, all faculty and staff in H-1B status currently in the US should put international travel plans on hold until they receive further guidance,” the university said in a statement.

If an H-1B holder is currently outside the United States, they are encouraged to return before the decree takes effect. The policy also incorporates recommendations from the Department of Homeland Security to modernize the H-1B visa selection process. If applications exceeded the annual cap of 85,000 new visas, preference would be given to petitioners with higher compensation or those associated with higher-skilled occupations.

This wage-based system's proponents argue that it could ease concerns that some companies, especially in STEM fields, may exploit the H-1B program to hire foreign workers at lower wages than their American counterparts.

I think this new H-1B visa order is unfair and discouraging. It creates fear among skilled professionals who bring huge value to U.S. universities and industries. The $100,000 fee will push away global talent and weaken innovation. Instead of building barriers, the U.S. should focus on collaboration and inclusivity.

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