DHS Proposes Major H-1B Visa Overhaul to Favor 'Higher Skilled, Higher Paid' Workers
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a significant overhaul of the H-1B visa system. This temporary work visa, used by U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, may see changes that favour 'higher skilled and higher paid' workers. The new system aims to incentivise employers to offer better wages or more skilled positions.
The proposed changes include replacing the current lottery selection process with a 'weighted selection process' based on wage levels. If the number of applicants exceeds the 85,000-limit, workers with higher wages would have greater odds of selection. This is a departure from a previous Trump-era proposal that critics argue left little opportunity for lower wage earners.
The DHS estimates that around 5,200 small businesses currently employing H-1B visa holders could suffer significant damages due to potential labour loss. However, it's important to note that there's no specific information available about the number of companies that could be significantly impacted by these planned changes.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is reportedly considering a lawsuit to challenge the recent $100,000 fee hike for H-1B visas. Critics argue that the proposed weighted system will harm U.S. employers' ability to build international knowledge and fill jobs. The plans are currently in a 30-day public comment period before the administration considers a final rule, which could take several months.
The proposed changes to the H-1B visa system aim to favour higher skilled and higher paid workers, potentially reshaping the U.S. job market. With significant impacts expected on both employers and employees, the plans are now open for public comment before the administration makes a final decision.
