New wage-based system rewards merit and specialization.
The United States has announced a major overhaul of the H-1B visa selection process, formally ending the long running random lottery system. Under the new framework, H-1B registrations will be prioritized based on wage levels set by the US Department of Labor, giving higher chances to roles that require advanced skills and offer stronger pay.
The reform is being introduced alongside a proposed $100,000 fee for new H-1B applications and tighter scrutiny of filings. US authorities say the move is aimed at curbing misuse of the program while restoring its original purpose of attracting highly skilled global talent rather than volume driven hiring.
For Indian professionals, who account for over half of all H-1B approvals, the shift marks a clear change in how success will be determined. While entry level and lower wage roles may face greater competition, candidates with strong academic preparation, specialized expertise and high impact job offers are expected to benefit from a more merit aligned system.
In the long term, the transition could bring greater clarity and predictability to the H-1B pathway. By linking selection to skill depth and role quality, the new model may ultimately reward preparation and long-term value over chance.
[Source: Times of India]
