Microsoft has issued a warning to its Indian employees holding H-1B visas, advising them to remain in the U. S. and avoid international travel due to a new fee mandated by the Trump administration.
• Employees in the U. S. have been told to stay put to prevent being locked out of the country. Those contemplating travel, including H-4 visa dependents, are urged to cancel their plans.
• From September 21, H-1B workers outside the U. S. will not be allowed to return unless their employer pays a new $100,000 surcharge imposed by the government.
• The warning is a response to a proclamation which affects many Indian tech workers, who make up over 70% of the H-1B visa holders.
• Microsoft’s internal advisory emphasizes that employees visiting India should return immediately, as there is a limited timeframe before the rule takes effect.
• Industry experts fear that this new policy will create a "locked-in" situation for junior and mid-level employees, discouraging them from utilizing the visa program or forcing them out of the workforce entirely.
• Critics suggest this move is an attempt to weaponize the immigration process, specifically targeting low and mid-level workers within the tech industry.
The new H-1B visa fee has sparked concern among Indian tech workers and companies alike, with Microsoft advising its employees to act swiftly to avoid complications. This policy could have significant consequences for the IT sector, affecting travel and employment stability for many workers.
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