International students in the United States are finding it increasingly difficult to secure jobs as American employers pull back from sponsoring work visas.
The slowdown follows a series of policy changes introduced under President Donald Trump’s administration, including a new $100,000 fee for companies applying for H-1B visas.
The H-1B visa program, a key route for skilled foreign graduates to stay and work in the US, has seen a steep contraction in hiring. And, the technology sector seems to be hit the most with Tech giants such as Amazon, Microsoft and Meta being among those most affected.
Business groups, including the US Chamber of Commerce, have challenged the new rules in court, arguing they are unlawful and could damage industries dependent on global talent.
Although authorities clarified that recent graduates and current student visa holders will be exempt from the fee, the uncertainty surrounding implementation has prompted many firms to delay or cancel international hiring.
According to date from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, Indian nationals made up over 70% of H-1B visa recipients in 2024, followed by applicants from China and the Philippines.
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