Did Trump Lower the Number of H1B Visas?
The H1B visa program has been a topic of intense debate in the United States for many years. This visa category allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. However, the number of H1B visas issued has been a subject of controversy, particularly during the presidency of Donald Trump. In this article, we will explore whether or not Trump lowered the number of H1B visas during his tenure.
Background on the H1B Visa Program
The H1B visa program was established in 1990 to help U.S. employers fill gaps in the workforce with highly skilled foreign professionals. Over the years, the program has faced criticism for various reasons, including allegations of exploiting foreign workers and reducing job opportunities for American citizens. Despite these concerns, the H1B visa program has remained a crucial tool for the U.S. economy, attracting skilled professionals from around the world.
Trump’s Approach to the H1B Visa Program
During his presidency, Donald Trump expressed his intention to prioritize American workers and reduce the number of H1B visas issued. He argued that the program was being used by corporations to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor. To this end, Trump’s administration implemented several measures aimed at curbing the number of H1B visas issued.
Changes to the H1B Visa Lottery System
One of the most significant changes made by the Trump administration was the implementation of a lottery system for H1B visas. Under the previous system, employers could file petitions for any number of visas, and the government would approve the petitions based on a random selection process. However, under the new system, the government first conducts a lottery to determine which petitions will be selected for review.
Increased Scrutiny of H1B Visa Petitions
Another measure taken by the Trump administration was to increase scrutiny of H1B visa petitions. The government began conducting more thorough audits and investigations of employers who sponsored H1B visas, ensuring that they were complying with the requirements of the program. This move was aimed at preventing employers from misusing the program to exploit foreign workers.
Impact on the H1B Visa Program
The changes implemented by the Trump administration have had a significant impact on the H1B visa program. According to data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the number of H1B visas issued decreased during Trump’s presidency. In 2017, the government issued approximately 85,000 H1B visas, but by 2020, that number had dropped to around 65,000.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is evident that the Trump administration did lower the number of H1B visas issued during its tenure. The implementation of a lottery system and increased scrutiny of visa petitions were key factors contributing to this decrease. While the H1B visa program remains an important tool for the U.S. economy, it is crucial for the government to strike a balance between attracting highly skilled foreign professionals and protecting American workers.
