The Journal. A $100,000 Work Visa Could Rock the Tech Industry
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Sep 24, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Amrith Ramkumar, a WSJ reporter focused on technology and policy, delves into the recent H-1B visa changes announced by the Trump administration. He breaks down how an alarming $100,000 fee created chaos in Silicon Valley, where many tech companies rely on H-1B workers for innovation. Ramkumar explores the fears among visa holders and the legal scramble that ensued. He also highlights the mixed reactions from tech leaders and the disproportionate impact on startups, questioning the balance between immigration policy and industry needs.
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Sudden $100K Fee Caused Panic
- The proclamation said it would raise the fee companies pay to sponsor H-1B applicants to $100,000 and take effect immediately, sparking chaos.
- That overnight timing forced many H-1B holders and employers into urgent, confused decisions about travel and reentry.
Travel Chaos And Mid-Boarding Eviction
- Amrith described people rushing to return to the U.S. and even passengers disembarked mid-boarding at SFO.
- Lawyers urged visa holders to come back immediately, creating travel chaos and distress for families.
H-1B's Core Role In Tech Hiring
- The H-1B program began in 1990 to bring skilled foreigners for three-year terms with renewals and a lottery.
- Tech companies increasingly rely on it to fill roles they claim they cannot staff domestically.