Walmart Suspends Job Offers for H-1B Visa Candidates: What This Means for Job Seekers

Walmart is halting the hiring of candidates who need H-1B visas. This move comes after a new executive order from President Trump, which imposes a hefty $100,000 fee for these visa applications. The aim? To address what the administration sees as misuse of the H-1B program, which allows skilled foreign workers into the U.S.

As one of the largest employers in the U.S., Walmart has relied heavily on this program. In fact, they secured over 2,000 H-1B visas just in the first half of 2025. A Walmart spokesperson noted that the company is committed to finding the best talent while being cautious about their H-1B hiring strategy.

This pause on H-1B hirings was first reported by Bloomberg News. While Walmart leads in the retail sector, tech companies are the biggest players in this space. For instance, Amazon approved more than 10,000 H-1B visas in the same timeframe, while big names like Microsoft, Meta, Apple, and Google each secured over 4,000.

The H-1B visa program is crucial not just for large corporations but also for startups and smaller firms outside of tech. However, Trump’s executive order affects only new visa applications and introduces a significant financial barrier for employers. Critics argue this policy could cut off access to talented overseas workers. On the flip side, supporters, including figures like Elon Musk, believe it’s essential for attracting top global talent.

Recent data shows that India accounts for more than 70% of H-1B visa recipients. China follows, providing about 12%. The Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, summed up the dilemma well: companies now have to weigh the $100,000 fee against the value of the foreign worker.

Business groups are pushing back against this new order. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently filed a lawsuit, claiming the fee would make the H-1B program too expensive for American companies. They argue it could lead to higher labor costs or a reduction in hiring skilled workers. In response, the White House defended the fee as a lawful step toward necessary reform.

The H-1B program has long been a topic of heated debate. While some advocate for protecting American jobs, others highlight the importance of diversity and innovation that skilled workers bring to the economy. The outcome of this situation will significantly impact both employers and the skilled workforce looking to come to the United States.

For further insights on the H-1B program and its implications, you can check out the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

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