The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued a heartfelt advisory to Filipinos holding H-1B visas in the United States: avoid unnecessary travel outside the country—at least for now.
This comes after US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a staggering $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants, while also announcing new restrictions on the entry of certain non-immigrant workers.
Trump justified the move by pointing to what he described as “abuse of the H-1B visa system” by American employers.
Pinoys Express Concern
The DFA acknowledged the anxiety felt by many Filipinos.
“The recent proclamation restricting the entry of certain nonimmigrant workers to the United States has raised understandable concern among our kababayans,” the DFA said.
Currently, Filipinos make up 1.3% of all H-1B visa holders. The DFA assured that those already in the US will not be affected by the hefty $100,000 fee.
Still, the agency cautioned that leaving the US could create complications. If travel is absolutely necessary, Filipino workers are urged to consult their employers in advance, since companies may have to shoulder the massive re-entry fee.
A Visa with High Stakes
The H-1B program, established in 1990, was designed to fill America’s labor shortages by allowing highly-skilled foreign workers to take temporary jobs in the US. While it doesn’t grant permanent residency, many workers have been able to transition to green cards—a crucial step toward US citizenship.
Embassy Ready to Assist
The DFA also assured Filipinos that help is available:
“The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., together with our consulates general across the United States, is closely monitoring the implementation of this proclamation. We remain ready to provide guidance and assistance to our Filipino community as needed,” the statement said.
For now, the message is clear: stay put, stay informed, and let the government help you navigate these uncertain changes.
