Summary
President Trump introduced a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, which is a visa program for skilled workers. This fee could negatively affect rural schools and hospitals that rely on foreign workers to fill critical roles, such as teachers and doctors. Employers argue that they depend on these workers to fill roles that are otherwise difficult to fill due to a lack of American applicants.
Key Facts
- President Trump announced a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications on September 19.
- This fee is primarily meant for new H-1B visa applicants, not current visa holders.
- The H-1B visa is used to hire skilled workers in fields like education and healthcare.
- The U.S. has a shortage of teachers and doctors, which is worsened in rural areas.
- Rural communities struggle to attract workers due to lower wages and fewer living amenities.
- Large companies may handle the fee, but it's difficult for rural schools and hospitals.
- A coalition filed a lawsuit to stop the fee because of its adverse effects on communities.
- J-1 visas, which are short-term, are not affected by the new fee but offer no permanent residency path.
