US H-1B Visa Bill Proposes 3-Year Freeze, $200K Salary

A new bill introduced in the US Congress proposes a three-year freeze on H-1B visa issuance and a minimum salary requirement of $200,000 for new applicants. The legislation aims to overhaul the H-1B visa program, which allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

The bill would halt all new H-1B visas for three years, during which time the government would review the program. After the freeze, only applicants earning at least $200,000 annually would be eligible for new visas. Current H-1B holders would not be affected by the salary requirement.

Supporters argue the changes would protect American workers and prevent exploitation of foreign labor. Critics say the high salary threshold would make it difficult for companies to hire skilled international talent, potentially harming innovation and economic growth.

The bill faces an uncertain path in Congress, where immigration reform has been a contentious issue. If passed, it would significantly reshape the H-1B program, which has a current cap of 65,000 visas per year, plus 20,000 for advanced degree holders.