US President Donald Trump has extended for another year an executive order requiring a $100,000 payment for certain new H-1B work visa applications. The programme allows US employers to hire skilled foreign workers, including in the technology sector.
Reuters reported that the additional payment does not apply to renewals for current visa holders or to many foreign graduates already in the United States who later move to H-1B status. The policy remains subject to court challenges over the administration’s legal authority.
The extension could have significant consequences for skilled workers from countries including India and for technology companies that rely heavily on the H-1B programme. Court rulings could still alter how the policy is implemented.