Archive · 13 Aug 2025
H-1B Visa Overhaul: Wage-Based System Proposed
The US government wants to change how it gives out H-1B visas, which let skilled workers from other countries work in the US.
Right now, it's a lottery.
The new plan would give visas to those with higher salaries first.
This means people with more experience and those working for big companies may get them more easily.
It may be harder for recent graduates and workers at smaller companies to get visas.
The changes are approved, but not yet in place.
The White House approved a shift from a lottery to a wage-based system for H-1B visas.
The new system would prioritize applicants based on salary levels determined by the Department of Labour.
Under the current lottery system, 85,000 H-1B visas are issued annually.
Senior professionals and those in specialized fields may benefit from the change.
Entry-level professionals and smaller companies might face challenges under the new system.
- Who
- The White House, U.S. Department of Labour, USCIS.
- What
- Proposed shift from lottery to wage-based selection for H-1B visas.
- When
- The White House recently approved the proposal; it could be implemented for FY2027.
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To ensure visas go to the most skilled and better-paid professionals and to better align with US labor market needs.
Potential Beneficiaries of Wage-Based System
Potential Detriments of Wage-Based System
Impact of Wage-Based System
Potential Beneficiaries of Wage-Based System
Senior professionals in fields such as AI and cybersecurity.
Potential Detriments of Wage-Based System
Entry-level professionals, recent graduates, and workers at smaller companies who may not have the experience or resources for the new system.
- Visa Program
- H-1B
- Annual Visa Cap
- 85,000
- Proposed Change
- Wage-based prioritization
- Current Approach
- Random lottery
- Potential Effective Date
- FY2027
