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The uncertainty surrounding U.S. immigration policies has intensified fears among H-1B visa holders, particularly in the technology sector. As concerns grow over potential policy changes under Donald Trump’s administration, major tech companies, including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, have issued warnings to their foreign employees, advising them to avoid international travel.

H-1B visas play a crucial role in the U.S. economy, particularly in the tech industry, where they provide a steady flow of skilled foreign workers. Each year, 65,000 H-1B visas are granted through a lottery system, with Indian professionals comprising the largest share, followed by workers from China and Canada. These visas allow companies such as Amazon, Meta, Apple, and Microsoft to recruit top talent from around the world. However, with growing uncertainty surrounding immigration policies, many of these workers are now in a precarious position.

Reports suggest that many H-1B holders have already begun altering their travel plans. Some have canceled trips to their home countries due to concerns that they may not be allowed back into the U.S. upon return. Others fear that upcoming policy changes could place their legal status in jeopardy. One Indian tech worker stated that they are carrying identification and immigration documents at all times to avoid potential legal complications.

The caution from tech firms stems from fears that the Trump administration could tighten restrictions on foreign workers, including potential changes to visa renewals, increased scrutiny at borders, and longer processing times. While Trump has previously expressed support for the H-1B program, his administration’s broader stance on immigration has created widespread uncertainty. Many foreign workers fear that even a minor policy shift could have major consequences on their ability to stay and work in the U.S.

Within Trump’s political circle, there is division over the future of the H-1B program. While figures like Elon Musk have spoken in favor of skilled immigration, arguing that it fosters innovation and strengthens the U.S. economy, others advocate for prioritizing American workers. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley has suggested that companies should invest more in domestic education rather than relying on foreign labor.

Adding to the uncertainty, the Green Card backlog has worsened, causing delays for those seeking permanent residency. Even accomplished entrepreneurs such as Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity, have faced difficulties in obtaining permanent residency despite their contributions to the economy. These delays have left many foreign professionals in limbo, forcing them to extend their H-1B status indefinitely while awaiting decisions on their Green Card applications.

Tech companies, recognizing the potential impact of these issues, have taken proactive measures to protect their employees. Some firms are paying for expedited visa processing to reduce the risk of delays, while others are lobbying for policy changes that would provide more security for foreign workers.

For now, many H-1B holders are in a wait-and-watch mode, hoping for more clarity from the administration regarding immigration policies. The situation remains fluid, and any changes to the H-1B program or Green Card process could significantly impact the U.S. technology sector, which heavily depends on skilled foreign labor.

With a new election cycle approaching, immigration policy is likely to remain a contentious issue. Whether the Trump administration moves forward with restrictive measures or maintains the status quo will determine the fate of thousands of foreign professionals who contribute to the country’s innovation and economic growth. For H-1B visa holders and their employers, the uncertainty continues, making international travel a risk many are unwilling to take.