WASHINGTON — The White House on Thursday reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s commitment to an “America First” approach as his administration faces mounting legal challenges over sweeping changes to the H-1B visa program.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president’s reforms aim to curb abuse of the visa system and protect U.S. workers from wage suppression. “The President’s main priority has always been to put American workers first,” Leavitt said. “We know for far too long, the H-1B visa system has been spammed with fraud, and that’s driven down American wages. These actions are lawful, they are necessary, and we will continue to fight this battle in court.”
Her remarks followed new guidance issued Tuesday by the Department of Homeland Security outlining details of a $100,000 application fee for new H-1B petitions. The rules include exemptions for applicants already in the United States—such as those shifting from student (F-1) to H-1B status, or extending their existing work authorizations. Current H-1B holders will not be barred from travel or re-entry under the new rules.
The fee will apply only to new visa petitions filed by foreign workers outside the United States who do not currently hold a valid H-1B. The proclamation also introduced an online payment system for applications.
The overhaul has sparked backlash from major business groups. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce filed suit against the administration last week, calling the policy “unlawful” and warning that it would “inflict significant harm on American businesses” by increasing labor costs and reducing access to highly skilled workers.
It was the second major lawsuit filed this month challenging the administration’s new visa rules. On October 3, a coalition of unions, educators, and religious organizations also sued, arguing that the changes violate federal law and undermine the nation’s economic competitiveness.
Trump defended the policy when signing the order on September 19, saying it would ensure that “the incentive is to hire American workers.” (Source: IANS)
