Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, JP Morgan and others caution H-1B and H-4 visa holders against leaving the US under Trump’s new rules.
WASHINGTON DC: Leading American companies have issued urgent advisories to their employees on H-1B and H-4 visas, warning them not to leave the United States as sweeping new visa rules take effect.
Over the weekend, firms including Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM, JP Morgan, and Oracle reportedly sent out internal communications advising staff to remain in the country until further notice. Some messages were described as “ultimatums,” asking employees abroad to return before deadlines set by their HR departments.
An internal Amazon email seen by US media outlets read: “If you have H-1B status and are in the US, stay in the country for now. Amazon recommends H-1B and H-4 visa holders to return to the US before 12:00 AM EDT September 21.”
The flurry of advisories comes after President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visas, effective immediately. The sudden rollout has sparked uncertainty for foreign workers, particularly those from India, who make up the majority of H-1B holders.
For many professionals and their families, the new policy poses not only financial challenges but also emotional strain. Indian officials have already warned that the fee could cause “disruptions for families” who depend on the visa system for stability.
Industry leaders argue that such abrupt changes could damage America’s reputation as a hub for global talent. They warn that forcing workers to remain in the US under stressful circumstances may also affect productivity and morale across the tech sector.
As confusion grows, legal experts suggest companies may face difficulties retaining skilled staff if immigration rules continue to shift without clear timelines or transition plans.
(This article is published under a mutual content partnership arrangement between The Brew News and The Free Press Journal)
