The US government is getting ready to replace the current H-1B visa selection system for foreign workers. The Department of Homeland Security has drafted proposals and gone through various critical scrutiny of the proposed new system. The Office of Management and Budget is reviewing regulations that would introduce a skill- and salary-based lottery system, according to reports in the English media quoting immigration firm Fragomen.
Final Review Stage
The OMB review is the last step before the regulations are finalized. After approval, the rules will be officially announced. It is reported that this review will soon be completed, and an advance copy of the final regulations released. The US government intends to make these changes in H-1B visa issuance next year, though no date has been confirmed officially.
Weighted Lottery System
The new system seeks to give top priority to skilled workers while continuing to support American job opportunities. Today, H-1B visas are allocated through a random, computerized lottery. The proposed system will introduce weighted selection. Applicants would be categorized into salary brackets, one to four. Workers with a higher salary would be given a higher chance of selection-a way of giving preference to more experienced or specialized employees.This reflects a change from pure lottery to one of skill and salary, thus talent and market value.
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