In a striking clarification amid ongoing investigations, former U.S. President Donald Trump defended the H-1B visa programme, arguing that America still relies on international expertise for industries requiring “specialized talent.” His remarks come at a time when the administration has intensified scrutiny of H-1B use, investigating companies accused of exploiting loopholes through low wages, fake work sites, and improper employment practices.
A Pragmatic Stand Amid a Tough Crackdown
During an interview with Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Trump addressed criticism that the U.S. should rely solely on domestic talent. “I agree, but you also have to bring in talent,” he said. “You don’t have certain talents here—and people have to learn.”
His comments reflected a more nuanced view than his administration’s hardline immigration reputation. While reinforcing his “America First” policy, Trump acknowledged a gap in domestic expertise, particularly in highly technical fields such as missile manufacturing, advanced battery production, and semiconductor development.
“You Can’t Train Overnight” — The Skills Gap Reality
Trump illustrated his point with an example from Georgia, where workers from South Korea were reportedly brought in to establish a battery manufacturing plant. He emphasized the complexity and risk of such work, stating, “You can’t take people off an unemployment line and say, ‘We’re going to make missiles.’ It doesn’t work that way.”
The statement underscored a broader challenge for the U.S.—balancing protection of local jobs with the practical need for foreign professionals who bring years of specialized experience.
175 Investigations into H-1B Visa Misuse
Despite his acknowledgment of the visa’s importance, the Trump administration recently initiated 175 investigations into potential H-1B violations. These inquiries target companies accused of paying below-market wages, creating non-existent job sites, or “benching” employees without pay while awaiting projects.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced the move on social platform X, stating, “As part of our mission to protect American jobs, we’ve launched 175 investigations into H-1B abuse.” Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer reaffirmed the government’s stance: “We’re using every resource to stop H-1B abuse and ensure high-skilled job opportunities go to American workers first.”
Reforming the Visa Framework
Earlier this year, Trump issued a proclamation—Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers—introducing new conditions for H-1B eligibility. Petitions filed after September 21, 2025, now require an additional $100,000 payment, positioned as a safeguard to ensure accountability and deter misuse.
While the measure aims to discourage fraudulent practices, critics argue it may disproportionately impact smaller firms or startups that depend on foreign expertise. Supporters, however, view it as a necessary reform to prioritize fairness and compliance.
The Indian Connection
Indian professionals, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors, represent a significant portion of H-1B holders. Many experts believe that while stricter oversight is justified, legitimate applicants from India contribute substantially to U.S. innovation and economic growth. The current developments, therefore, are being watched closely in India’s tech corridors, where the H-1B remains both an aspiration and a lifeline.
Balancing Innovation with Integrity
Trump’s remarks reveal an underlying duality in U.S. immigration policy—welcoming global skill while tightening the framework against exploitation. His statement, “You can’t just flood the country with workers, but you can’t ignore the talent you don’t have,” captures the delicate balancing act the U.S. must maintain in a globalized economy.