An overhaul of the H-1B visa is being planned, focusing on “knowledge transfer,” says Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. This clarification follows remarks from Donald Trump that the US needs to “bring talent into the country,” which many misread as a softening of his stance.
Bessent explained the new vision is a “train and return” program. Skilled experts will be brought in, not to fill jobs, but to “train American workers.”
He suggested a “three, five, seven” year term for these experts, after which “they can go home.” The ultimate goal is for “the US workers [to] fully take over” these roles.
This policy is driven by a skills gap. Bessent noted that Americans are “not yet” ready for jobs in shipbuilding or semiconductor manufacturing because the US has neglected these industries.
This “home run” strategy uses “overseas partners” as temporary teachers. They “teach American workers” and “return home,” leaving a more capable US labor force.