Tech Giants Urge H-1B Visa Holders to Rush Back to US
In a dramatic turn of events, major tech companies like Microsoft, Facebook, and Amazon have issued urgent directives to their H-1B visa holders abroad. Following President Trump’s unexpected announcement of a $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas, these companies are pushing their skilled engineers to return to the US within just 24 hours. This sudden shift has thrown many professionals into a state of chaos, especially those currently in India.
The announcement has created a sense of urgency among H-1B holders in India, who must now make last-minute travel plans. The rising cost of airfares adds to their dilemma, as many scramble to find flights within the tight deadline. A frustrated engineer expressed on social media, "Traveling on such short notice is challenging, and airfares have also surged." This sentiment resonates with many who find themselves in a tough spot.
In a communication to its employees, Microsoft emphasized the importance of remaining in the US for those already in the country. They warned that leaving could result in denied re-entry due to the new regulations. The message was clear: “If you are in H-1B status and are in the US, you should remain in the US for the foreseeable future.” This directive has disrupted existing travel plans for many engineers.
For those outside the US, the message was stark. Microsoft and Amazon have urged employees holding H-1B and H-4 visas to return as quickly as possible. Amazon highlighted the midnight deadline, while Meta (Facebook) has instructed its employees to return within 24 hours. The urgency of these communications reflects the companies' concerns about the potential fallout from the new travel restrictions.
JP Morgan joined the ranks of these tech giants, mandating all staff to return to the US by the specified time. With the proclamation acting as a travel restriction, the implications are severe. Microsoft clarified that individuals will not be able to enter or return to the US on H-1B status unless they pay the additional fee.
This situation is particularly distressing for many Indian professionals who have invested years in their careers in the US tech industry. The unpredictability of immigration policies continues to create uncertainty, forcing thousands to reconsider their future plans. As companies like Microsoft prepare for the fallout, they are also looking to provide support for those affected. The next few hours will be crucial for many visa holders as they navigate this sudden and disruptive change.
