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The Digest:

A wave of uncertainty over U.S. immigration policy begins to recede with a crucial clarification. The White House has confirmed that a controversial $100,000 fee on H-1B visas will apply solely to new applicants, exempting current holders and renewals and providing relief to tech giants and skilled foreign workers worldwide.

Key Points:
  • The clarification was issued via the White House's official X (Twitter) account.
  • The fee will not impact those selected in this year's H-1B lottery, effective October 1.
  • Major U.S. tech firms had advised H-1B employees to delay travel amid the confusion.
  • India, which provides over 70% of H-1B workers, expressed deep concern over the policy.
  • Nigeria, a top African source of skilled migrants, is closely monitoring the impact.
  • The fee is part of a broader Trump-era crackdown on U.S. immigration.
  • Analysts warn it could price out talent from developing economies and disrupt global innovation.
This policy shift, while narrowed, signals a more restrictive era for global talent mobility, forcing nations and corporations to recalibrate their strategies in an increasingly fragmented landscape.

Sources: Business Day Nigeria