US to End Random H-1B Lottery, Will Choose by Wage Level

The White House has approved a big change in the H-1B visa process. At present, H-1B visas are given through a random lottery system. This means all eligible applications have an equal chance of getting selected.

The new plan will replace this random selection with a wage-based system. Under this system, priority will be given to jobs that offer higher salaries. Those earning at the top wage levels will get the first chance, while lower-paying roles will have fewer chances of approval.

For many Indian tech professionals, this change could have a mixed impact. Senior professionals in high-paying positions may benefit, as their applications will likely be chosen first. But fresh graduates, entry-level workers, and those in smaller companies may face a tougher challenge in securing an H-1B visa.

Experts say this change could push companies in India to offer more competitive salaries for roles meant to be sent to the US. At the same time, it could reduce opportunities for younger talent hoping to start their careers in America.

The wage-based selection rule is expected to be announced soon. Once published, it will replace the current lottery system for future H-1B applications