Trump backs H-1B visa fee proposal to boost American worker hiring and training

US President Donald Trump has backed a proposed fee on H-1B visa petitions, saying it would encourage companies to hire and train American workers before looking overseas for skilled employees.

"To ensure we are hiring and training American workers, we are proposing a new fee on H-1B visa petitions that will encourage companies to invest in qualified Americans before looking overseas for labour," Trump stated in his Labour Day proclamation issued on Monday.

The fee referenced in the proclamation is not a new charge introduced on Labour Day. The US Department of Homeland Security had earlier proposed a USD 103,265 fee for cap-subject H-1B applications, including those eligible for the advanced-degree exemption.


Also Read: H-1B fee hike: Trump plan could push cost above $200,000

The proposed fee would be paid when an H-1B petition is filed, in addition to existing immigration costs. The measure is part of the federal regulatory process and is not currently an active charge.

Trump linked the proposed H-1B fee to his broader push to expand domestic employment and manufacturing. His Labour Day proclamation focused on American workers, industrial production and trade policies.

"After decades of disastrous trade policies that surrendered our industrial strength to foreign nations, companies are now returning home, investing trillions of dollars into the United States economy, and adding over 900,000 American jobs," Trump stated.

Also Read: US White House review clears proposal to end 60-day H-1B grace period

The H-1B programme is widely used by technology companies and other employers to hire skilled foreign workers. Indian nationals have traditionally accounted for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries, making changes to the programme closely watched by Indian professionals and the Indian diaspora in the US.

"Our Nation is entering a bold new era of American manufacturing, technological innovation, and economic prosperity -- powered by the might of the American worker," Trump said.

The latest proposal comes after the Trump administration previously sought to impose a USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B entrants. A Massachusetts federal judge invalidated that measure in June, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority. An appeals court later rejected the administration's request for a stay in July.

Unlike that earlier measure, the USD 103,265 fee is being pursued through the federal rule-making process and remains a proposal rather than an immediate H-1B charge.

Trump's proclamation designated September 7 as Labour Day, recognising the contributions of American workers.