In a notable shift from his previously hardline position, US President Donald Trump has expressed a more measured view on H-1B visa reforms, emphasizing the importance of welcoming highly skilled foreign professionals to sustain America’s industrial and technological leadership.
During a conversation with Fox News host Laura Ingraham on Tuesday, Trump defended the role of skilled immigrant workers in the US economy, pointing out that certain jobs require specialized expertise that cannot be easily filled by long-term unemployed Americans. “You can’t take people off the unemployment line and say, ‘I’m going to put you into a factory where we’re going to make missiles,’” Trump remarked, highlighting the complex nature of industries like manufacturing and defense.
While maintaining his commitment to protecting American wages, Trump admitted that the US still needs to “bring this talent” from abroad to stay competitive on the global stage. His comments suggest a more pragmatic approach, recognizing that innovation and national growth depend on a balance between domestic employment and international skill exchange.
Earlier in September, Trump signed a proclamation introducing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications, a drastic jump from the previous $1,500 charge. However, the US State Department later clarified that the increase would apply only to new petitions filed after September 21, ensuring that existing visa holders remain unaffected.
The President also cited examples from Georgia, where deportations of skilled South Korean battery makers disrupted operations at a Hyundai facility. “Making batteries is complicated and dangerous. These people had years of experience,” he said, implying that replacing them with untrained local workers was not immediately feasible.
This evolving stance underscores Trump’s recognition of a global reality: in a fast-changing, technology-driven economy, talent knows no borders. As industries evolve, nations must adapt their policies to blend opportunity with expertise, ensuring economic progress while empowering both local and global contributors.
At its core, Trump’s message carries a human truth — progress demands openness. Whether through collaboration or cross-border innovation, the future of work depends on the ability to attract, train, and retain the best minds — regardless of where they come from.
