H-1B Visa Changes: Tech Companies Prepare for New Rules

The new rules, set to take effect in the coming months, require employers to pay a $100,000 fee for each new H-1B petition. The lottery will now prioritize applicants with higher salary offers, a shift from the previous random selection process.

Companies are responding by moving some roles to overseas offices and adjusting compensation packages to meet the new thresholds. Several large tech firms have already announced plans to increase starting salaries for H-1B-sponsored positions to improve lottery odds.

Immigration attorneys say the changes could reduce the total number of H-1B visas issued, as smaller firms may struggle to afford the fee. Larger companies with deeper pockets are expected to absorb the cost, but some may pass it on through lower base pay or reduced benefits.

The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the program, says the changes aim to protect American workers and ensure that H-1B visas go to the most skilled and highest-paid applicants. Critics argue the fee and salary focus will disproportionately hurt startups and entry-level tech roles.