'We don't have many talented workers': Trump defends H-1B visa
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump appears to have softened his hardline stance on H-1B visa reforms. In a recent interview with Fox News's Laura Ingraham, he acknowledged the need for specialized foreign talent in critical roles. "I agree, but you also have to bring this talent," he said when asked if H-1B reform was a major priority for his administration.
Interview
'People have to learn'
When the interviewer interrupted and said, "We have plenty of talented workers," the president quickly responded, "No, you don't." "You don't have certain talents. You don't have certain talents. People have to learn. You can't take people off an unemployment line and say, 'I'm going to put you into a factory where we're going to make missiles,'" he said.
Fee increase
Trump's new rules
Trump's comments come after he signed a proclamation in September, drastically changing the H-1B visa application process. The new rules include a $100,000 fee for new applications, a steep hike from the previous $1,500. However, this fee only applies to new petitions or lottery entries filed after September 21 and does not affect current visa holders or petitions submitted before that date.
Workforce debate
Complex roles can't be filled by unemployed Americans, says Trump
During the interview, Trump also argued that complex roles in manufacturing and defense can't be filled by long-term unemployed Americans without extensive training. He cited Georgia's experience, where skilled foreign workers were removed from a Hyundai plant under construction, causing problems in battery production. "You can't just say a country is coming in...to build a plant...and take people off the unemployment line who haven't worked in five years," he said.
Program endorsement
Trump endorsed H-1B visa earlier this year
Earlier this year, Trump endorsed the H-1B visa program at an event with tech leaders. "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," he said.
Fee controversy
Fee on H-1B visas shocked employers, workers globally
The H-1B visa allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise, with a heavy reliance on talent from India and China. In September, the Trump administration introduced a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. The move shocked employers and workers globally. However, the White House later clarified that it was a one-time fee and would not apply to current visa holders.