智通财经网·2025-09-21 02:31Core Points - The Trump administration's executive order to reform the H-1B visa program has caused significant turmoil in the U.S. business community [1] - The announcement raised the application fee for H-1B visa applicants to $100,000, aimed at ensuring the recruitment of high-skilled talent that cannot be replaced by American workers [1] - Major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and JPMorgan have issued urgent notices to employees, advising H-1B visa holders to remain in the U.S. and return quickly if traveling abroad [1][3] Business Response - Following the announcement, a chaotic mobilization occurred within the tech industry, with HR departments working overnight to track employees and assist with travel arrangements [3] - Companies like Cognizant also instructed their H-1B employees abroad to return to the U.S. before the new policy takes effect [3] - HR personnel were actively contacting employees to confirm their locations and facilitate their return, with some companies assigning multiple HR staff to track H-1B employees [3] Employee Impact - Employees faced significant disruptions, with reports of individuals being pulled from meetings to rush to airports [4] - Some employees struggled to find flights back to the U.S., with creative travel routes being considered, such as returning via Guam or Hawaii [4] Government Clarification - The White House intervened to clarify that the new policy only applies to future visa applicants and does not affect current visa holders or renewals [2][5] - The $100,000 fee is a one-time charge, contrary to earlier statements suggesting it might be an annual fee [2][5] - Despite the clarifications, uncertainty remains regarding the implementation of the new policy, with some government agencies still awaiting further guidance [5] Broader Concerns - The new policy has drawn criticism, with concerns that it may harm the U.S.'s ability to attract top global talent and negatively impact the economy [6] - India's government expressed worries about the humanitarian consequences for families affected by the changes [6] - Immigration experts suggest that this may be the beginning of broader reforms targeting the H-1B program [6]