The University of Southern California (USC) has issued a travel advisory to faculty and staff on H-1B visas, urging them to postpone international travel following policy changes introduced by the Trump administration.

In a statement circulated internally, the university said, “Out of an abundance of caution, all faculty and staff in H-1B status currently in the US should put international travel plans on hold until they receive further guidance.”

The advisory also asked H-1B visa holders currently abroad to return to the United States before the newly announced presidential proclamation takes effect. “If possible, any faculty and staff in H-1B status who are currently outside the US are strongly recommended to return to the US before the proclamation takes effect,” the statement added.

The warning comes after a new immigration order that directly affects foreign professionals in the US on H-1B visas.

$100,000 FEE FOR NEW H-1B PETITIONS

On September 19, President Donald Trump signed a presidential proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on each new H-1B petition filed after September 21. The rule, which will remain in force for at least 12 months, aims to reform the visa system to “protect American jobs” and reduce what the administration calls misuse of the program.

However, the fee does not apply to existing H-1B holders, renewals, or amendments. The policy has caused confusion among employers and universities employing international talent. Initially, several tech companies expressed concern about disruptions to operations, fearing the fee would impact ongoing projects and staffing.

However, the Trump administration later clarified that the additional cost affects only new applications.

The White House insists the move will ensure that the H-1B program benefits highly skilled workers and discourages companies from hiring cheaper foreign labour over US citizens.

The University of Southern California, which employs numerous international faculty in specialised fields, has become one of the first institutions to formally warn its employees.

The rule change comes alongside a Department of Homeland Security plan to revise H-1B visa distribution. If applications surpass the 85,000 annual cap, those offering higher wages or advanced roles will be prioritised, a move the administration says promotes fair pay for skilled workers.

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