The United States has introduced a new rule requiring employers hiring foreign workers under the H-1B visa program to pay $100,000 per worker annually, a development that may significantly affect Nigerian professionals seeking U.S. employment.
The H-1B visa, widely used in sectors such as technology, healthcare, education, and engineering, allows U.S. companies to employ highly skilled foreign workers. Under the new policy, firms sponsoring H-1B employees, including Nigerians, will face a substantial increase in costs.
Industry experts have warned that the measure could discourage smaller companies and startups from hiring foreign talent due to the steep fee.
Analysts note that while major technology companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google may absorb the cost, mid-sized and smaller firms could scale back or eliminate sponsorships for H-1B applicants.
The Trump administration defended the rule, stating it aims to “hire Americans first” and curb perceived abuses in the visa system, where foreign workers are sometimes employed at lower wages. Critics, however, have raised legal concerns, arguing that executive orders may not authorize such a high fee, which far exceeds normal visa processing costs.
They also caution that the policy could undermine the U.S.’s ability to attract global talent and slow innovation.
For Nigerians, the implications are immediate. Skilled workers in technology, finance, engineering, and healthcare may face fewer opportunities, and some employers might reduce benefits or pass the additional costs onto employees. Nigerians who recently graduated and planned to transition from the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme to H-1B employment could encounter increased competition and stricter eligibility requirements.
Analysts suggest that some Nigerian professionals may now consider alternative destinations, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, or remote work, as these markets actively seek foreign talent and may offer more accessible pathways for skilled workers.
The policy takes effect immediately, and its long-term effects on U.S. employment patterns, international talent flows, and the careers of Nigerian professionals remain closely watched.
