The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has warned Filipinos with H-1B visas in the United States to refrain from traveling outside the U.S. for now. While U.S. President Donald Trump's new policy is still unclear, with an additional fee of nearly ₱5.9 million (USD 100,000) for the visa.
According to the DFA, employers of their employees may be forced to pay this large amount when they return to the United States. So if travel is unavoidable, Filipinos should contact their company first before leaving.
The DFA added that the impact is minimal as Filipinos make up only 1.3% of the total H-1B visa holders. Those with visas approved before September 21 are not included in the new policy and can still travel. Visa renewals are also not affected.
The DFA also said that the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. is monitoring the implementation of the new guidelines and is ready to assist Filipinos who will be affected.
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to temporarily hire professionals from abroad in the fields of healthcare, technology, and finance. The new policy has had the strongest impact on workers from India and China, which make up a large portion of applications.