Core Points - Over 70% of H-1B visa holders are of Indian nationality, making them the largest beneficiary group of the H-1B visa program [1] - The new policy announced by President Trump requires employers to pay a fee of $100,000 for H-1B visa holders upon their entry into the U.S., effective from the 21st of the month [1] - The announcement caused panic among Indian H-1B visa holders temporarily outside the U.S., prompting the Indian government to express concerns about humanitarian impacts [1] - The White House clarified that the new policy only applies to future applicants and does not affect existing visa holders [1] Impact on Companies - Major tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft advised their employees to return to the U.S. before the new policy took effect, indicating the immediate operational impact on these firms [3] - The announcement led to a surge in flight prices from India to the U.S., with one-way tickets doubling from 40,000 Indian Rupees (approximately 3,230 RMB) to 80,000 Rupees (approximately 6,461 RMB) within two hours [3] - The situation created chaos in flights, with passengers expressing concerns about returning to the U.S. due to the new policy, leading to delays and cancellations [4] H-1B Visa System Changes - The H-1B visa program, established in 1990, allows for 85,000 visas annually, with 20,000 reserved for master's degree holders and 65,000 for bachelor's degree holders [4] - The new reform in 2024 will change the lottery system to "one person, one draw," limiting applicants to a single chance even if they apply through multiple companies [4][5] - Trump's administration has long criticized the H-1B visa program, citing concerns over wage suppression for American workers, with nearly 70% of approved Indian applicants in FY 2023 earning less than $100,000 [5]