Trump Administration Proposes Major Overhaul of H-1B Visa Selection

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 23rd SEP 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

The Trump administration unveiled a proposal to reshape the H-1B visa process, prioritizing higher-skilled and better-paid foreign workers. According to a Federal Register notice, the plan would alter the existing lottery system if applications exceed the 85,000-visa cap, giving preference to employers offering higher wages through a tiered selection system. This initiative follows a White House proclamation requiring companies to pay a $100,000 annual fee for new H-1B visas, sparking confusion among tech firms and foreign workers.

While the administration later clarified that the fee applies only to new visas, the announcement triggered a scramble among visa holders to remain in the U.S. or quickly return. Officials say the measures aim to protect American workers from wage competition and ensure that H-1B visas go to the most qualified applicants. The moves are part of President Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, which has intensified since taking office.