Walmart significantly reduced its H-1B visa applications in the final quarter of 2025, marking a sharp decline in its reliance on foreign skilled workers following policy changes implemented by the Trump administration. The retail giant submitted 312 certified H-1B applications during this period, a drop of more than 50% compared to the same quarter in 2024 and 40% below its 2023 numbers, according to U.S. Department of Labor data.
Policy Shifts Impact Hiring Practices
The Trump administration's reforms introduced higher costs and stricter scrutiny for H-1B visa applications, including a one-time $100,000 fee per application and a preference for higher-paid workers. These changes have led major employers, including tech giants like Amazon and Google, to scale back their use of the program. Walmart's median base salary for H-1B applicants rose to $150,000, up from $144,000 and $145,000 in the previous two years.
The Labor Department's review process ensures foreign workers receive wages comparable to U.S. workers and aims to protect domestic employment opportunities.
Comparative Trends in Retail Industry
While Walmart's H-1B filings plummeted, other retailers like Target, Home Depot, and Lowe's maintained consistent numbers over the same period. However, all four companies saw higher application volumes at the end of 2024 compared to late 2025. Walmart's skilled worker visa program remains significantly larger than its competitors, reflecting its scale and reliance on specialized talent.
The decline in H-1B filings aligns with broader trends in corporate hiring, as companies prioritize leaner, more specialized teams amid economic uncertainty and policy shifts. Walmart has not commented on the changes to its visa program.