$3,800 Flights and Aborted Takeoffs: How Trump’s H-1B Announcement Panicked Tech Workers

On April 22, 2020, President Trump announced that he would be suspending immigration for 60 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the executive order did not specifically mention the H-1B visa program, tech workers were left in a panic as rumors circulated that their work visas would be affected.

As a result of the uncertainty, many tech workers scrambled to book last-minute flights back to their home countries, fearing they would be stuck in the U.S. with expired visas. Prices skyrocketed, with some flights costing as much as $3,800 for a one-way ticket.

Reports emerged of tech workers being removed from flights just before takeoff, as airlines scrambled to comply with the potential changes to visa regulations. The uncertainty and chaos surrounding the situation left many in the tech industry feeling anxious and unsettled.

The H-1B visa program has long been a point of contention in the tech industry, with some arguing that it takes away job opportunities from American workers, while others see it as essential for filling high-skilled positions. Trump’s announcement only added fuel to the fire, sparking fears of potential changes to the program.

Ultimately, the panic subsided as it became clear that the H-1B visa program was not directly impacted by the immigration suspension. However, the incident served as a reminder of the uncertainty and vulnerability that many tech workers face due to the current political climate.

In conclusion, the $3,800 flights and aborted takeoffs caused by Trump’s H-1B announcement served as a wake-up call for tech workers, highlighting the fragility of their immigration status and the importance of staying informed and prepared for potential changes.