The United States is poised to significantly tighten regulations around the H-1B visa programme, a move that could have far-reaching implications for Indian IT professionals and international students
seeking employment in the country. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a draft proposal titled ‘Reforming the H-1B Visa Non-Immigrant Visa Programme’, which seeks to overhaul key aspects of the programme, including eligibility criteria, oversight mechanisms, and fee structures.
At the heart of the proposed changes is the introduction of a $100,000 fee (approx Rs 88,00,000) for H-1B visa applications, alongside a shift from the current lottery-based selection process to a wage-based system, prioritising applicants with higher salaries.
DHS officials contend that these reforms aim to “protect the interests of American workers and increase transparency in the visa process”. Experts warn, however, that the new rules could make it more challenging for students and early-career professionals, particularly those with limited experience, to secure a foothold in the US job market.
The proposal also targets third-party companies and employers previously found in violation of visa regulations, signalling increased scrutiny and enforcement. The new rules have been published in the Federal Register for public comment, with DHS aiming for a possible implementation by December 2025.
The H-1B visa, introduced under the Immigration Act of 1990, has historically allowed US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in specialised fields where domestic talent is insufficient. Currently, 65,000 H-1B visas are issued annually, with an additional 20,000 set aside for individuals holding a US master’s degree or higher.
Indians have traditionally been the largest beneficiaries of the program, accounting for roughly 75% of all H-1B visas in 2023, with professionals employed across global tech giants including Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.
