Summary
A conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation, has proposed new rules for the H-1B visa program, which allows skilled workers from other countries to work in the U.S. The group suggests changes such as replacing the lottery system with a wage-based ranking and introducing a high fee for new H-1B applications. These changes aim to prioritize American workers in technology and related sectors.
Key Facts
- The Heritage Foundation, linked to the Trump administration’s Project 2025, suggested significant changes to the H-1B visa program.
- They propose removing exemptions for research and nonprofit groups and switching from a lottery to a wage-based ranking system.
- The report recommends a strict annual cap on each company's H-1B applications.
- Suggestions include barring companies from applying if they violate immigration laws.
- President Trump announced a new $100,000 fee for H-1B petitions starting September 21, 2025.
- The Department of Labor's Project Firewall is working to prevent discrimination against American workers in H-1B processes.
- Critics say the high fee could disadvantage smaller firms and startups compared to larger companies.
