Walmart Halts H-1B Visas For Jobs Amidst Rising US Administration Fees

Walmart has put a temporary hold on hiring candidates who need H-1B visas to work in the United States, as per the news reports. The decision follows a recent change in U.S. immigration rules that increased visa costs for employers.

New $100,000 Visa Fee

In September, the Trump administration introduced a $100,000 fee for each new H-1B visa application. The government said the increase is meant to protect jobs for U.S. workers and reduce the misuse of the visa system. The rule applies to petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025, for employees outside the country without a valid visa.

Effect on Walmart’s Hiring

Walmart, which employs around 1.6 million people in the U.S., said the pause mainly affects a small group of corporate and technology roles. According to government data, Walmart has about 2,390 employees on H-1B visas. Most of these positions are based in Bentonville, Arkansas, and cities like San Francisco, where its corporate offices operate.

Company Statement

As per the news reports, a Walmart spokesperson said the company continues to hire and invest in talent while being cautious about its H-1B hiring. The pause does not amount to a hiring freeze but reflects a temporary adjustment as the company reviews the new rules.

Legal and Industry Reaction

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a lawsuit against the visa fee, arguing that the cost makes it difficult for small and mid-sized businesses to hire skilled workers. Immigration attorneys have also pointed out that the fee does not apply to people already in the U.S. on student or other non-immigrant visas switching to H-1B status.

About the H-1B Program

The H-1B visa, created in 1990, allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in technical and specialised roles. The program issues 65,000 visas each year, plus an additional 20,000 for applicants with advanced U.S. degrees.

Read More: US Clarifies $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Implementation and Exemptions!

Conclusion

Walmart’s decision highlights how recent visa rule changes are influencing hiring plans across major U.S. employers.

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