Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – US President, Donald Trump’s new immigration plan has triggered confusion, after announcing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas used by high-skilled workers.
The White House clarified on Saturday that the fee applies only to new applicants, not renewals. “Those who already hold H-1B visas will not be charged,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
The policy, effective Sunday, expires after one year unless renewed. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick initially called it annual, but later said it was “one-time,” adding further confusion.
Immigration attorney Kathleen Campbell Walker described the rollout as “total chaos in the H-1B process with basically a day’s notice.”
India, which provides over 70% of H-1B holders, warned of severe consequences for families and businesses.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce also expressed concern about workforce disruption.
Trump simultaneously unveiled “gold card” and “platinum card” visas, costing $1m and $5m respectively, offering paths to citizenship and tax-free stays.
Critics branded the plan elitist and damaging.
Doug Rand, a former US immigration official, called the fee “ludicrously lawless,” saying it catered to immigration hardliners.
While restrictionists praised the move, analysts warned it could deter talent and harm American employers.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
