In a move aimed at safeguarding domestic employment and curbing exploitation within the H-1B visa system, President Donald J. Trump has signed a proclamation suspending the entry of certain foreign nonimmigrant workers into the United States.

Under the new directive, employers seeking to hire H-1B visa holders must now accompany their petitions with a $100,000 payment. This financial requirement is designed to deter misuse of the program and prioritize high-skilled, fairly compensated labor. Exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis if deemed in the national interest.

The proclamation also mandates:

• Stricter enforcement by the Departments of Homeland Security and State, including denial of entry for non-payment.
• Joint guidance from the Departments of Labor and Homeland Security on audits, penalties, and wage verification.
• Rulemaking initiatives to revise prevailing wage levels and prioritize high-paid, high-skilled applicants.

The administration cites rising unemployment among recent American STEM graduates and a surge in H-1B approvals for companies simultaneously laying off U.S. workers. Officials argue that unchecked visa approvals have discouraged young Americans from pursuing careers in science and technology, undermining national resilience.

President Trump emphasized his commitment to “putting American workers first,” noting that recent employment gains have gone to U.S.-born citizens. The administration has also tightened access to federal job training programs, ensuring they serve legal residents.

This policy shift reflects a broader effort to recalibrate immigration and labor systems toward fairness, transparency, and national security.