Washington: US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has indicated that the H-1B visa program could see major changes before the $100,000 application fee takes effect in February 2026, calling the current system a "wrong idea" that favors low-cost foreign tech consultants over highly skilled professionals like doctors and educators.
Lutnick also criticized the current H-1B visa system as "fundamentally flawed", arguing that it enables the entry of low-cost tech consultants who then bring their families to the US.
"This procedure and process goes into effect in February 2026. My guess is there are going to be a significant number of changes between now and 2026. As of right now, it is going to be a one-time fee of $100,000," Lutnick told Chicago-based news network NewsNation.
"At least it shouldn't be overrun with these people. But I think you're going to see a real thoughtful change going forward. And that's what I expect will happen," he added.
Senators reintroduce Bill to tighten H-1B, L-1 visa rulesTwo of the Senate’s most senior lawmakers got together once again to overhaul America’s high-skilled H-1B and L-1 visa systems, saying companies have turned what was meant to be a tool for innovation into a loophole for outsourcing. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and Ranking Member Dick Durbin reintroduced the H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act, wherein they have also proposed the introduction of a “specialty occupation” that would require at least a bachelor's degree. The Bill introduces new wage and hiring rules for employers. It also proposes priority to H-1B applicants with STEM qualifications. Earlier, the senators sent letters to 10 major employers, including Amazon, Google, and Meta, questioning why they were filing thousands of visa petitions even as they laid off American employees. |
