Core Points - The tech sector and other companies are advising H-1B visa holders against foreign travel due to a new $100,000 application fee imposed by the Trump administration [1][2] - Major companies like Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon have communicated to employees to return to the US and cancel travel plans following the announcement of the new rules [2][3] - The White House clarified that the fee applies only to new visa applications and not to current visa holders, but confusion remains regarding the enforcement of these changes [3][4] Company Responses - Microsoft expressed understanding of the uncertainty created by the new developments and advised employees to prioritize safety [4] - Amazon warned H-4 dependent visa holders to remain in the US, reflecting a cautious approach to the new regulations [5] - Walmart and Ernst & Young also issued similar guidance, advising employees to limit international travel until the situation is clearer [8][9] Visa Program Context - The H-1B visa program is crucial for the tech sector, allowing companies to hire skilled foreign workers, with major users including Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta [6] - In 2025, over 470,000 applications were submitted for the H-1B lottery, which includes 65,000 visas and an additional 20,000 for US master's graduates [7] Legal and Industry Concerns - Immigration lawyers anticipate significant confusion and potential legal challenges to the new policy, with expectations of immediate court action [10] - Current visa holders are expressing anxiety over the changes, with some considering relocating to other countries if the situation does not improve [12] - The Trump administration's rationale for the changes is to enhance legitimate applications while reducing abuses, but companies are concerned about the sustainability of the high application fee [12][14]