26 Dec : Indian technology professionals and Indian American families have expressed unease following a major shift in the US H-1B visa selection process.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that future H-1B cap selections will now prioritise applications based on wage levels, rather than relying solely on a random lottery system.
The new rule, published in the Federal Register, allows the selection of visa beneficiaries based on the wage listed in their registration.
DHS says the measure is designed to address skill shortages in high-level positions while protecting the wages and job opportunities of US workers.
The department also aims to prevent the misuse of the H-1B programme to displace domestic employees.
Public comments during the rulemaking process highlighted worries from employers, startups, and universities.
Many emphasised that H-1B professionals drive innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship.
Critics argue that prioritising higher wages could favour large corporations, placing early-career professionals, startups, and research institutions at a disadvantage.
Startups, in particular, rely on H-1B workers for specialised expertise. Observers have warned that making the programme more expensive and complex may hinder US tech innovation and global competitiveness.
DHS Response
DHS rejected claims that the rule would restrict access to international talent.
Citing data on US graduate unemployment in STEM fields and stagnant wages in computer-related occupations, the department argued that the change could incentivise hiring of qualified domestic workers.
It also addressed concerns about process integrity, including potential wage manipulation and duplicate registrations.
Indian Americans have raised additional concerns about the wider impact on families, including home ownership, long-term settlement, and stability.
Many highlighted that changes to the H-1B system could affect not only professional trajectories but also family life in the US.
The DHS emphasised that the amendments comply with civil justice standards and do not require extra environmental or tribal consultations, signalling its intent to implement the changes firmly.
