H-1B visa program has long been a point of contention, and a recent reform requiring employers to pay a hefty $100,000 application fee, aims to curb what a few call “abuse” of the system. Reflecting these concerns, a viral social media post from a former H-1B visa holder has reignited debate about the program’s impact on American workers.
“I was on an H-1B for 20 years,” he shared. “Last year I finally received my green card. Now my son is 18, a US citizen and in a few years he will need a tech job. But I am seeing how tough that market already is for citizens and green card holders.”
He questioned the current priorities of the visa system writing, “When there’s a shortage of tech jobs, why aren’t citizens and permanent residents given preference? Historic American success was built on giving opportunities to Americans first , innovation, creativity, fairness.”
The former visa holder also argued that the H-1B program has drifted away from its intended purpose. “I understand H-1B is supposed to be temporary,” he said. “It shouldn’t automatically lead to permanent residency — except for those who are truly exceptional or simply fortunate.”
‘Cancel H-1B’
Netizens also posted their opinion on the post. A user noted, “Cancel H-1B, and your son will still struggle. Run the numbers if you want. The majority of tech jobs are moving away. It’s always about the cost and money for companies. This is just a way for politicians to blame and not fix the real issue. The new rules have already stopped the new flow of H-1Bs. It will not make a difference, when the job itself goes away.”
Another clamed, “Why can’t your American son work as a barista like an ordinary American? Why does he deserve a tech job?.”
“It’s the U.S. companies and not the U.S. government which hires all these people. US government (unlike Indian government) can’t force them. They are driven by their interest to make more money and will hire the person they believe will give the best bang for their buck. US government operates in a hands off manner. Their involvement in your life is not an outsize one. For that you need to be in India as an Indian citizen,” added a user.
“Ah, the garden variety “I got mine, better make sure to close the door behind me”. Yawn You should go to a MAGA rally to really open your eyes. Go to one in a red state for the actual experience,” stated a netizen.
(This story is based on a post shared by a social media user. The details, opinions, and statements quoted herein belong solely to the original poster and do not reflect the views of Financialexpress.com. We have not independently verified the claims.)
