Indian professionals working in the U.S. on H-1B visas received reassurance after the White House dismissed rumors about their possible job loss and forced return to India.
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, clarified that former President Donald Trump is not in favor of any policy that would expel skilled foreign workers. Although Trump’s knowledge of the H-1B program is limited, he has never called for deporting workers under this visa or replacing them with American workers, she said.
Leavitt addressed media reports suggesting H-1B workers would be replaced by U.S. citizens, calling such claims a “misinterpretation” of Trump’s statements. She emphasized that Trump’s actual stance encourages foreign companies to invest in the U.S., bring their skilled employees, and help develop key industries such as technology and manufacturing.
She added that while Trump aims to create more employment for American citizens in the future, he also supports knowledge and skill transfer from international professionals as a long-term benefit.
The confusion arose after Trump recently spoke about prioritizing jobs for American citizens, which the White House now says was taken out of context. His broader vision, according to Leavitt, includes imposing tariffs to boost U.S. manufacturing and motivate foreign companies to establish operations on American soil.
One remark that sparked debate was Trump’s suggestion that foreign firms might train Americans before returning overseas. While this led to widespread concern, the White House’s recent clarification has brought relief to thousands of Indian workers and their families currently living and working in the United States under H-1B visas.
