Trump’s H-1B Fee Hike: A Challenge to US Tech and a Test for Elon Musk’s Stance

President Trump’s recent decision to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas has drawn criticism and raised questions about its implications for the U.S. economy. This policy change, which goes into effect on September 21st, has prompted calls for H-1B visa holders to return to the U.S. to avoid being denied re-entry. The H-1B program has long been a source of debate, with Trump previously expressing his intention to tighten its regulations. Leading tech companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Apple heavily utilize the H-1B program. Elon Musk, a vocal supporter of H-1B visas, has previously stated that the program has been instrumental in the success of companies like Tesla and SpaceX. The new fee could severely affect Indian professionals, who accounted for a significant portion of H-1B visa approvals. Immigration experts suggest that the fee increase could limit job mobility and increase the financial burden on companies and visa holders.