Trump Expresses Support for H-1B Visa Program Amid Immigration Scrutiny
United States President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the H-1B visa program, acknowledging its benefits while recognizing the concerns it raises, particularly regarding job security for American workers.
During a joint press conference at the White House on Tuesday, Trump expressed his support for bringing highly skilled foreign workers into the US, even if it means they train and assist others with fewer qualifications. “I like both sides of the argument, but I also like very competent people coming into our country, even if that involves them training and helping other people that may not have the qualifications they do,” Trump stated.
The President was joined by prominent figures including Oracle CTO Larry Ellison, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman at the briefing.
The H-1B visa program, which grants temporary employment to skilled foreign workers, has long been a subject of debate. Business leaders like Tesla CEO Elon Musk have championed the program, believing it helps attract global talent to the US, while critics argue it undercuts American job opportunities.
Trump responded to these criticisms, emphasizing the importance of attracting the best talent. “We want competent people coming into our country. And H-1B, I know the program very well. I use the program. Whether it’s wine experts, even waiters — high-quality waiters — you’ve got to get the best people,” Trump remarked, stressing that legal immigration fosters business growth and economic prosperity. “By doing that, we’re expanding businesses, and that takes care of everybody,” he added.
Read More: US Permits H-1B Visa Renewals Without Departure
H-1B and its Impact on Indian Professionals
The H-1B visa program is particularly significant for Indian professionals, who make up 72% of the visa’s holders. The visa allows an initial stay of three years, extendable by another three. However, the process can be restrictive, with many applicants discouraged from traveling outside the US while seeking extensions.
Trump’s support for the program will likely resonate with many in India, where H-1B holders have been a critical part of the tech and services sectors. Notably, Indians also make up the third-largest group of undocumented immigrants in the US, according to a 2024 Pew Research report.
Immigration Policies Under Trump’s New Administration
Trump’s comments came amid a broader shift in his administration’s approach to immigration. Hours after being sworn in, the President signed executive orders addressing immigration, including declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
Trump also reiterated his stance on legal immigration, stating, “I’m fine with legal immigration. I like it. We need people, and I’m absolutely fine with it. We want to have it. But we have to have legal immigration.”
In 2024, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported more than 270,000 immigrants, the highest level since 2014. Among those deported, 1,529 were Indian nationals.
Trump’s administration has already begun implementing stricter immigration policies. One notable change was the shutdown of an app introduced under former President Joe Biden to streamline asylum-seeker applications. This has raised questions about the future of immigration reforms under Trump’s leadership, especially as the US continues to grapple with a complex and controversial immigration system.
