Fear and Uncertainty Grip Kenyans in US as Trump’s H-1B Visa Order Threatens Jobs

Fear and Uncertainty Grip Kenyans in US as Trump’s H-1B Visa Order Threatens Jobs

Thousands of Kenyans working in the United States are staring at possible job losses. This follows a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump that imposes a staggering $100,000 (Ksh12.9 million) fee on companies hiring foreign workers under the H-1B visa program.

“Locked Out Unless Employers Pay,” New Order Warns

The order, which takes effect on September 21, has sent shockwaves through immigrant communities. It mandates that employers pay the fee not only during initial hiring but also annually.

“Foreign workers who leave the US temporarily cannot return unless their employers pay the mandatory fee,” the order states.

This clause effectively traps H-1B visa holders inside the US, unless their employers commit to the hefty payment.

Kenyans in Critical Sectors Most at Risk

Kenyans working in IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and education are among the most vulnerable. These sectors rely heavily on H-1B sponsorship and now face uncertainty.

“This move will cripple innovation and hurt industries that depend on skilled foreign talent,” said a Kenyan software engineer based in Texas.

The H-1B visa allows US companies to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. It typically grants a three-year stay, extendable to six years or more under certain conditions.

Critics Slam the Order as “Anti-Immigrant”

While Trump defended the order as a way to protect American jobs and wages, critics argue it’s a direct attack on immigrants.

“This is not about protecting Americans. It’s about shutting doors on skilled workers,” said a US-based immigration attorney.

The order also requires strict documentation, verification, and enforcement by the Departments of State, Labor, and Homeland Security.

“Employers must retain proof of payment. Non-compliance means denial of entry,” the directive warns.

Families and Futures in Limbo

With over 700,000 H-1B holders and 550,000 dependents currently in the US, the impact is massive. Many Kenyans fear losing their jobs, homes, and legal status.

“We’ve built lives here. This order threatens everything,” said a Kenyan nurse in New Jersey.

The emotional toll is rising, as families brace for possible separation and financial ruin.

“I can’t afford to leave. But I also can’t guarantee my employer will pay,” shared a Nairobi-born data analyst.

As the deadline looms, immigrant communities are calling for urgent intervention and legal challenges to stop the order.

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Fear and Uncertainty Grip Kenyans in US as Trump’s H-1B Visa Order Threatens Jobs