Trump Administration Moves to End H-1B Visa Lottery, Shift to Skill-Based Selection

The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter :

In a major shake-up of the U.S. work visa system, the Trump administration has announced plans to overhaul how H-1B visas are granted, bringing an end to the long-standing random lottery system. The new framework will prioritise applicants based on wage levels, skills and job specialization, rather than chance.

Under the revised rules, employers offering higher salaries for highly skilled roles will receive priority in the selection process. The annual cap on H-1B visas—65,000 regular visas and 20,000 for applicants with U.S. advanced degrees—will remain unchanged, but the method of allocation will fundamentally shift.

U.S. officials argue that the lottery system was vulnerable to misuse and allowed companies to hire foreign workers at lower wages, potentially disadvantaging American workers. The administration says the new approach is designed to protect U.S. wages, reward talent, and ensure the visas go to the most qualified candidates.

The move is expected to benefit experienced professionals in high-paying sectors such as technology, engineering and specialised research. However, it may pose challenges for entry-level workers, startups, and smaller firms, which often offer comparatively lower salaries.

The decision could significantly impact countries like India, whose professionals form a large share of H-1B recipients. Industry groups have expressed concerns that the changes may introduce uncertainty and reduce opportunities for young graduates and mid-level professionals.