Major tech companies, including Amazon, Google, and Meta, have sharply reduced their H-1B visa filings in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, according to federal data. This decline aligns with stricter regulations and increased costs imposed by the Trump administration, as well as ongoing layoffs across the tech sector.
Decline in H-1B Filings
Department of Labor data reveals that H-1B visa filings for the first quarter fell significantly compared to the same period the previous year. Amazon, one of the largest sponsors, saw a drop from 4,647 certified applications in Q1 2025 to 3,057 in Q1 2026. Google and Meta also experienced declines, with filings dropping by roughly half. Other tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, IBM, Salesforce, and Tesla similarly reported fewer filings.
“I think companies are being more selective in who they sponsor,” said Jason Finkelman, a Texas lawyer specializing in employment and family immigration.
Impact of Regulatory Changes
The Trump administration’s recent changes to the H-1B program include a $100,000 fee for new applications and a lottery system favoring higher-paid applicants. These measures aim to curb fraud and encourage the hiring of American workers. However, they have also made the visa process more costly and complex for employers.
While Nvidia bucked the trend with an increase in filings, most tech companies are adjusting to the new regulatory environment and a leaner workforce strategy. As Big Tech focuses on AI development and specialized teams, demand for foreign hires has diminished.
The figures reflect only Labor Department certifications and not final visa approvals, leaving room for variation in annual tallies based on hiring cycles and other factors.