White House clarifies H-1B visa policies amid industry chaos and fee hikes

The White House clarified that President Trump's new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas applies only to new petitions and not renewals or existing visa holders, after initial confusion caused panic among U.S. companies relying on H-1B workers. The policy, which also includes a $1 million 'gold card' visa for investors, has led to warnings from major tech firms and banks urging affected employees to return to the U.S. and cancel travel plans, amid ongoing debates over immigration and skilled labor in America.