The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.

As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee.

<h2>How much of a hike is there?</h2>

Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-h-1b-visa-renewal-online-drive-begins-heres-how-to-apply-685254">US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply</a>

The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily.&nbsp;

Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase.

<h2>Why have the visa fees been hiked?</h2>

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-mq-9b-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-india-686080">US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India</a>

In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments.

The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent.

<h2>What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect?</h2>

Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.

The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year. As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee. How much of a hike is there? Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year. Also read | US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily. Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase. Why have the visa fees been hiked? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations. Also read | US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments. The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent. What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect? Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know

As a part of Canada’s tech talent strategy, the country unveiled the new Open Work Permit (OPW) on July 16, which marked a milestone for H-1B visa holders. The OWP grants specialised occupation professionals the chance to work across various employers in Canada for up to three years, with the added perk of bringing their immediate families along.&nbsp;

As soon as the announcement was made for this new scheme, the popularity of this permit skyrocketed, hitting the 10,000 application cap in just two days. This left some re-considering their immigration prospects through this permit.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tucker-carlson-claims-to-know-fox-news-fired-him-under-dominion-settlement-619635">Tucker Carlson claims he 'knows' Fox News fired him under Dominion settlement</a>

However, there are still multiple pathways for H-1B holders to explore Canada’s promising avenues without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).&nbsp;

Here’s an overview of some alternative temporary worker pathways to Canada:

<h2>1. Global Talent Stream</h2>

The Global Talent Stream makes it easier for Canadian employers to hire foreign workers for specialised occupations, especially when Canadians aren't available for these specific roles. It was first introduced in 2017. There are two categories under this stream:

Category A: Designated Partner Referral

For ambitious companies in need of specialized talents from abroad, a Global Talent Stream referral from a designated partner, like a local or provincial business association, is a must.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-beachgoers-run-in-all-directions-as-aggressive-sea-lions-come-ashore-619595">WATCH | Beachgoers run in all directions as aggressive sea lions come charging</a>

Category B: In-Demand Occupation&nbsp;

Companies seeking skilled foreign workers for occupations listed in the Global Talent Occupations List can tap into this option, making use of the high-demand occupations with an inadequate local labour supply.

<h2>2. Intra-Company Transfers</h2>

Intra-company transfers to Canada allow international workers to move to Canada. 
If you work for a multinational company that has a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in Canada, you may be able to secure a Canadian work permit through the Intra-company transfer program.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/taste-of-own-medicine-just-stop-oil-meeting-ruined-by-pranksters-video-619622">Taste of own medicine? Just Stop Oil meeting ruined by pranksters | VIDEO</a>

You must have at least one year of full-time work experience with the foreign enterprise and come to Canada to perform comparable work to be eligible for the pathway.

<h2>3. Business Visitors&nbsp;</h2>

A business visitor is a foreign national who comes to Canada to participate in international business activities, but who will not enter the Canadian labour market.

Business visitors usually stay in Canada for a few days or a few weeks but are able to stay for up to 6 months. If you plan to stay for more than 6 months or plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to apply for a work permit.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As a part of Canada’s tech talent strategy, the country unveiled the new Open Work Permit (OPW) on July 16, which marked a milestone for H-1B visa holders. The OWP grants specialised occupation professionals the chance to work across various employers in Canada for up to three years, with the added perk of bringing their immediate families along.

As a part of Canada’s tech talent strategy, the country unveiled the new Open Work Permit (OPW) on July 16, which marked a milestone for H-1B visa holders. The OWP grants specialised occupation professionals the chance to work across various employers in Canada for up to three years, with the added perk of bringing their immediate families along. As soon as the announcement was made for this new scheme, the popularity of this permit skyrocketed, hitting the 10,000 application cap in just two days. This left some re-considering their immigration prospects through this permit. Also Read | Tucker Carlson claims he 'knows' Fox News fired him under Dominion settlement However, there are still multiple pathways for H-1B holders to explore Canada’s promising avenues without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Here’s an overview of some alternative temporary worker pathways to Canada: 1. Global Talent Stream The Global Talent Stream makes it easier for Canadian employers to hire foreign workers for specialised occupations, especially when Canadians aren't available for these specific roles. It was first introduced in 2017. There are two categories under this stream: Category A: Designated Partner Referral For ambitious companies in need of specialized talents from abroad, a Global Talent Stream referral from a designated partner, like a local or provincial business association, is a must. Also Read | WATCH | Beachgoers run in all directions as aggressive sea lions come charging Category B: In-Demand Occupation Companies seeking skilled foreign workers for occupations listed in the Global Talent Occupations List can tap into this option, making use of the high-demand occupations with an inadequate local labour supply. 2. Intra-Company Transfers Intra-company transfers to Canada allow international workers to move to Canada. If you work for a multinational company that has a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in Canada, you may be able to secure a Canadian work permit through the Intra-company transfer program. Also Read | Taste of own medicine? Just Stop Oil meeting ruined by pranksters | VIDEO You must have at least one year of full-time work experience with the foreign enterprise and come to Canada to perform comparable work to be eligible for the pathway. 3. Business Visitors A business visitor is a foreign national who comes to Canada to participate in international business activities, but who will not enter the Canadian labour market. Business visitors usually stay in Canada for a few days or a few weeks but are able to stay for up to 6 months. If you plan to stay for more than 6 months or plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to apply for a work permit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Missed Canada’s work permit for H-1B holders? Here are some options you can consider

Immigration officials in the US have discovered a massive fraud behind the gigantic rise in H-1B visa applications for the financial year 2024 starting October. According to media reports, some companies are colluding to submit multiple applications for the same person to increase their chances of getting the temporary work visa.&nbsp;

It must be noted that the US issues H-1B visas on the basis of a lottery system, and persons filing multiple applications get the chances increased of them getting the coveted visa.&nbsp;

The visa fraud was unearthed after immigration officials noted a massive surge in the H-1B visa applications for FY 2024. Companies filed a total of 780,884 applications for H-1B visas this fiscal year, 296,957 more than the FY 2023. On the other hand, just 301,447 applications were filed in 2022 and 274,237 in 2021.

<h2>US officials promise a crackdown</h2>

US immigration officials have now promised to bolster the registration process to reduce the chances of one person filing multiple applications. In a statement released Friday, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said, “The H-1B programme is an essential part of our nation's immigration system and our economy, and the USCIS is committed to implementing the law and helping meet the ever-changing needs of the US labour market."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;H-1B visa fraud: Tech companies accused of gaming H-1B lottery system |&nbsp;

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"We are working on an upcoming H-1B modernisation rule that will propose, among other improvements, bolstering the H-1B registration process to reduce the possibility of misuse and fraud in the H-1B registration system," it added.

<h2>USCIS may even revoke approvals based on false registration</h2>

The federal agency has warned that it will peruse the applications closely and will reject them if any information provided by the applicant is found incorrect. Also, it may deny or even revoke an approval based on a registration that contained false information and attestation.

As per the statement released by USCIS, “USCIS may also refer the individual or entity who submitted a false attestation to appropriate federal law enforcement agencies for investigation and further action, as appropriate."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2023-might-be-the-worst-year-to-apply-for-h-1b-visa-551005">2023 might be the worst year to apply for H-1B visa</a>

According to NDTV, a group of American tech workers, who have protested in the past against the H-1B visa regime, is now calling on the administration to reinstate the Donald Trump-era reforms.&nbsp;

“The Trump administration had proposed a fix to the H-1B lottery by prioritising selection based on highest wages. You sued the administration so now you have to deal with the fraud that you are complaining about," the group said.

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Immigration officials in the US have discovered a massive fraud behind the gigantic rise in H-1B visa applications for the financial year 2024 starting October. According to media reports, some companies are colluding to submit multiple applications for the same person to increase their chances of getting the temporary work visa.

Immigration officials in the US have discovered a massive fraud behind the gigantic rise in H-1B visa applications for the financial year 2024 starting October. According to media reports, some companies are colluding to submit multiple applications for the same person to increase their chances of getting the temporary work visa. It must be noted that the US issues H-1B visas on the basis of a lottery system, and persons filing multiple applications get the chances increased of them getting the coveted visa. The visa fraud was unearthed after immigration officials noted a massive surge in the H-1B visa applications for FY 2024. Companies filed a total of 780,884 applications for H-1B visas this fiscal year, 296,957 more than the FY 2023. On the other hand, just 301,447 applications were filed in 2022 and 274,237 in 2021. US officials promise a crackdown US immigration officials have now promised to bolster the registration process to reduce the chances of one person filing multiple applications. In a statement released Friday, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said, “The H-1B programme is an essential part of our nation's immigration system and our economy, and the USCIS is committed to implementing the law and helping meet the ever-changing needs of the US labour market." Watch: H-1B visa fraud: Tech companies accused of gaming H-1B lottery system | × "We are working on an upcoming H-1B modernisation rule that will propose, among other improvements, bolstering the H-1B registration process to reduce the possibility of misuse and fraud in the H-1B registration system," it added. USCIS may even revoke approvals based on false registration The federal agency has warned that it will peruse the applications closely and will reject them if any information provided by the applicant is found incorrect. Also, it may deny or even revoke an approval based on a registration that contained false information and attestation. As per the statement released by USCIS, “USCIS may also refer the individual or entity who submitted a false attestation to appropriate federal law enforcement agencies for investigation and further action, as appropriate." Also Read | 2023 might be the worst year to apply for H-1B visa According to NDTV, a group of American tech workers, who have protested in the past against the H-1B visa regime, is now calling on the administration to reinstate the Donald Trump-era reforms. “The Trump administration had proposed a fix to the H-1B lottery by prioritising selection based on highest wages. You sued the administration so now you have to deal with the fraud that you are complaining about," the group said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US officials unearth massive fraud in H-1B lottery system after huge surge in visa applications

The federal agency for immigration services said it is wrong to assume that sacked workers holding the H-1B visas have to leave the US within 60 days. The remarks came amid mass layoffs in the tech sector and the agency also asserted that they have multiple options to stay in the US.&nbsp;

In a letter to the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), USCIS Director Ur M Jaddou said: "When non-immigrant workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and may, in some instances, wrongly assume that they have no option but to leave the country within 60 days."

FIIDS recently wrote to USCIS about the impacts of recent technology sector layoffs. The group also sought an increase to the up to 60-day grace period.&nbsp;

The H-1B visa allows US employers to recruit foreign workers in speciality occupations. A speciality occupation requires the application of specialised knowledge and a bachelor's degree or the equivalent of work experience. FIIDS has been working for laid-off H-1B visa holders.&nbsp;

The USCIS addressed a letter to the FIIDS director for policy and analysis strategy Khanderao Kand and said it acknowledges the financial and emotional impact that job loss can have on employment-based non-immigrant workers and their families in the US.&nbsp;

"We are aware of the issue of involuntary terminations, especially in the technology sector," Kand said.&nbsp;

Indians were among thousands of highly skilled foreign-born workers in the US, who have lost their jobs due to the series of recent layoffs at big tech companies.&nbsp;

According to The Washington Post, nearly 200,000 IT workers have been laid off since November last year.

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The federal agency for immigration services said it is wrong to assume that sacked workers holding the H-1B visas have to leave the US within 60 days. The remarks came amid mass layoffs in the tech sector and the agency also asserted that they have multiple options to stay in the US.

The federal agency for immigration services said it is wrong to assume that sacked workers holding the H-1B visas have to leave the US within 60 days. The remarks came amid mass layoffs in the tech sector and the agency also asserted that they have multiple options to stay in the US. In a letter to the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), USCIS Director Ur M Jaddou said: "When non-immigrant workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and may, in some instances, wrongly assume that they have no option but to leave the country within 60 days." FIIDS recently wrote to USCIS about the impacts of recent technology sector layoffs. The group also sought an increase to the up to 60-day grace period. The H-1B visa allows US employers to recruit foreign workers in speciality occupations. A speciality occupation requires the application of specialised knowledge and a bachelor's degree or the equivalent of work experience. FIIDS has been working for laid-off H-1B visa holders. The USCIS addressed a letter to the FIIDS director for policy and analysis strategy Khanderao Kand and said it acknowledges the financial and emotional impact that job loss can have on employment-based non-immigrant workers and their families in the US. "We are aware of the issue of involuntary terminations, especially in the technology sector," Kand said. Indians were among thousands of highly skilled foreign-born workers in the US, who have lost their jobs due to the series of recent layoffs at big tech companies. According to The Washington Post, nearly 200,000 IT workers have been laid off since November last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wrong to assume sacked H-1B staffers have to leave America within 60 days: USCIS director

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said it has reached Congressionally-mandated 65,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/h1-b-visa-restrictions-compel-tech-firms-to-hire-more-locals-208225">H-1B visa</a> cap for the fiscal year 2020, after it started receiving the applications for the most sought-after work visa among foreign, including Indian, professionals.&nbsp;

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows the US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

The USCIS, the federal agency mandated with the task of approving such applications, on Friday said, "it has received a sufficient number of petitions projected as needed to reach the congressionally-mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap for the fiscal year 2020."

The fiscal year begins October 1, 2019, and it the USCIS started receiving the visa petitions from April 1.&nbsp;

However, the agency did not reveal the number of petitions received by it in the first five days.

The USCIS said it will next determine if it has received a sufficient number of petitions to meet the 20,000 H-1B visa US advanced degree exemption, known as the master's cap.&nbsp;

The agency said it will reject and return visa fees for all unselected cap-subject petitions that are not prohibited multiple filings. It will continue to accept and process petitions that are otherwise exempt from the cap.

Petitions filed for current H-1B workers who have been counted previously against the cap, and who still retain their cap number, are exempt from the FY 2020 H-1B, the USCIS said.

It did not say if it would resort to the computerised draw of lots as was the case in the last several years.

Last year, the USCIS received 190,000 cap-subjected H-1B petitions. In 2018, it received 199,000 applications while in 2017, 236,000 petitions in the first five days after it started receiving the applications.&nbsp;

The USCIS received 232,972 H-1B cap-subject petitions in 2016 and in 2015, it received 172,581 cap-subjected petitions.

This is the first season of H-1B petitions after the USCIS announced enforcing new rules for the most sought-after US work visa applications for foreign professionals.&nbsp;

The new rules give preferences to those who have completed their post-graduation degree course from any US educational institutions.

This year the USCIS has suspended the electronic registration requirement for the fiscal year 2020 cap season to complete user testing and ensure the system and process are fully functional.

Under the new system, the USCIS first selects H-1B petitions submitted on behalf of all beneficiaries, including those that may be eligible for the advanced degree exemption.

Thereafter, the USCIS will select from the remaining eligible petitions, a number projected to reach the advanced degree exemption. Changing the order in which the USCIS counts these allocations will likely increase the number of petitions for beneficiaries with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education to be selected under the H-1B numerical allocations.

The USCIS says that the change will result in an estimated increase of up to 16 per cent (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected petitions for H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education.

"These simple and smart changes are a positive benefit for employers, the foreign workers they seek to employ, and the agency's adjudicators, helping the H-1B visa program work better," USCIS Director L Francis Cissna had said in a statement.

"The US employers seeking to employ foreign workers with a US master's or higher degree will have a greater chance of selection in the H-1B lottery in years of excess demand for new H-1B visas," Cissna said.

In April 2017, US President Donald Trump, had issued the 'Buy American and Hire American Executive Order', instructing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to "propose new rules and issue new guidance, to supersede or revise previous rules and guidance if appropriate, to protect the interests of US workers in the administration of our immigration system."

The executive order specifically mentioned the H-1B program and directed the DHS and other agencies to "suggest reforms to help ensure that H-1B visas are awarded to the most-skilled or highest-paid petition beneficiaries."&nbsp;

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said it has reached Congressionally-mandated 65,000 H-1B visa cap for the fiscal year 2020, after it started receiving the applications for the most sought-after work visa among foreign, including Indian, professionals.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said it has reached Congressionally-mandated 65,000 H-1B visa cap for the fiscal year 2020, after it started receiving the applications for the most sought-after work visa among foreign, including Indian, professionals. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows the US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The USCIS, the federal agency mandated with the task of approving such applications, on Friday said, "it has received a sufficient number of petitions projected as needed to reach the congressionally-mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap for the fiscal year 2020." The fiscal year begins October 1, 2019, and it the USCIS started receiving the visa petitions from April 1. However, the agency did not reveal the number of petitions received by it in the first five days. The USCIS said it will next determine if it has received a sufficient number of petitions to meet the 20,000 H-1B visa US advanced degree exemption, known as the master's cap. The agency said it will reject and return visa fees for all unselected cap-subject petitions that are not prohibited multiple filings. It will continue to accept and process petitions that are otherwise exempt from the cap. Petitions filed for current H-1B workers who have been counted previously against the cap, and who still retain their cap number, are exempt from the FY 2020 H-1B, the USCIS said. It did not say if it would resort to the computerised draw of lots as was the case in the last several years. Last year, the USCIS received 190,000 cap-subjected H-1B petitions. In 2018, it received 199,000 applications while in 2017, 236,000 petitions in the first five days after it started receiving the applications. The USCIS received 232,972 H-1B cap-subject petitions in 2016 and in 2015, it received 172,581 cap-subjected petitions. This is the first season of H-1B petitions after the USCIS announced enforcing new rules for the most sought-after US work visa applications for foreign professionals. The new rules give preferences to those who have completed their post-graduation degree course from any US educational institutions. This year the USCIS has suspended the electronic registration requirement for the fiscal year 2020 cap season to complete user testing and ensure the system and process are fully functional. Under the new system, the USCIS first selects H-1B petitions submitted on behalf of all beneficiaries, including those that may be eligible for the advanced degree exemption. Thereafter, the USCIS will select from the remaining eligible petitions, a number projected to reach the advanced degree exemption. Changing the order in which the USCIS counts these allocations will likely increase the number of petitions for beneficiaries with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education to be selected under the H-1B numerical allocations. The USCIS says that the change will result in an estimated increase of up to 16 per cent (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected petitions for H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education. "These simple and smart changes are a positive benefit for employers, the foreign workers they seek to employ, and the agency's adjudicators, helping the H-1B visa program work better," USCIS Director L Francis Cissna had said in a statement. "The US employers seeking to employ foreign workers with a US master's or higher degree will have a greater chance of selection in the H-1B lottery in years of excess demand for new H-1B visas," Cissna said. In April 2017, US President Donald Trump, had issued the 'Buy American and Hire American Executive Order', instructing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to "propose new rules and issue new guidance, to supersede or revise previous rules and guidance if appropriate, to protect the interests of US workers in the administration of our immigration system." The executive order specifically mentioned the H-1B program and directed the DHS and other agencies to "suggest reforms to help ensure that H-1B visas are awarded to the most-skilled or highest-paid petition beneficiaries."

US reaches 65,000 H-1B visa cap for 2020

The Trump administration on Friday proposed major changes to the H-1B application process with the aim of awarding the visa to the most skilled and highest paid foreign workers.

Under a new proposed merit-based rule, a notice for which was issued on Friday, companies employing foreign workers on the H-1B visa under the Congressional mandated annual caps -- would have to electronically register with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) during a designated registration period.

The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap.&nbsp;

The USCIS would also reverse the order allowing it to select H-1B petitions under the H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption.

This is likely to increase the number of foreign workers with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education to be selected for an H-1B cap number. As such the proposed rule will introducing a more meritorious selection of beneficiaries, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a statement.

The DHS said public comments on the proposed rule can be submitted from December 3 to January 2.

"Currently, in years when the H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption are both reached within the first five days that H-1B cap petitions may be filed, the advanced degree exemption is selected prior to the H-1B cap.

"The proposed rule would reverse the selection order and count all registrations or petitions towards the number projected as needed to reach the H-1B cap first," the DHS said.

Once a sufficient number of registrations or petitions have been selected for the H-1B cap, the USCIS would then select registrations or petitions towards the advanced degree exemption.

This proposed change would increase the chances that beneficiaries with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education would be selected under the H-1B cap and that H-1B visas would be awarded to the most-skilled and highest-paid beneficiaries, it said.

The proposed process would result in an estimated increase of up to 16 per cent (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education, the DHS said.

The USCIS said it expects that shifting to electronic registration would reduce overall costs for petitioners and create a more efficient and cost-effective H-1B cap petition process for the agency.

The proposed rule would help alleviate massive administrative burdens on USCIS since the agency would no longer need to physically receive and handle hundreds of thousands of H-1B petitions and supporting documentation before conducting the cap selection process, it said.

This would help reduce wait times for cap selection notifications. The proposed rule also limits the filing of H-1B cap-subject petitions to the beneficiary named on the originally selected registration, which would protect the integrity of this registration system, USCIS said.&nbsp;

The Trump administration on Friday proposed major changes to the H-1B application process with the aim of awarding the visa to the most skilled and highest paid foreign workers.

The Trump administration on Friday proposed major changes to the H-1B application process with the aim of awarding the visa to the most skilled and highest paid foreign workers. Under a new proposed merit-based rule, a notice for which was issued on Friday, companies employing foreign workers on the H-1B visa under the Congressional mandated annual caps -- would have to electronically register with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) during a designated registration period. The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap. The USCIS would also reverse the order allowing it to select H-1B petitions under the H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption. This is likely to increase the number of foreign workers with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education to be selected for an H-1B cap number. As such the proposed rule will introducing a more meritorious selection of beneficiaries, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a statement. The DHS said public comments on the proposed rule can be submitted from December 3 to January 2. "Currently, in years when the H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption are both reached within the first five days that H-1B cap petitions may be filed, the advanced degree exemption is selected prior to the H-1B cap. "The proposed rule would reverse the selection order and count all registrations or petitions towards the number projected as needed to reach the H-1B cap first," the DHS said. Once a sufficient number of registrations or petitions have been selected for the H-1B cap, the USCIS would then select registrations or petitions towards the advanced degree exemption. This proposed change would increase the chances that beneficiaries with a master's or higher degree from a US institution of higher education would be selected under the H-1B cap and that H-1B visas would be awarded to the most-skilled and highest-paid beneficiaries, it said. The proposed process would result in an estimated increase of up to 16 per cent (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education, the DHS said. The USCIS said it expects that shifting to electronic registration would reduce overall costs for petitioners and create a more efficient and cost-effective H-1B cap petition process for the agency. The proposed rule would help alleviate massive administrative burdens on USCIS since the agency would no longer need to physically receive and handle hundreds of thousands of H-1B petitions and supporting documentation before conducting the cap selection process, it said. This would help reduce wait times for cap selection notifications. The proposed rule also limits the filing of H-1B cap-subject petitions to the beneficiary named on the originally selected registration, which would protect the integrity of this registration system, USCIS said.

US proposes changes to H-1B visas; to be given to most skilled, highest paid foreign workers

The process of filing petitions for H-1B, considered as the most sought-after work visa among highly skilled Indian professionals, begins tomorrow amidst unprecedented scrutiny by the Trump Administration.

A strong indication is coming from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency which is responsible to process all H-1B visas, that there will be zero tolerance by it for even minor errors.

Chatter at various social media platforms and groups indicate that immigration attorneys this time expect a much high rate of rejection.

The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.

The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap.

Days ahead of the start of the H-1B visa application process for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 this year USCIS warned that all duplicate applications would be subject to rejection. In previous years filing of duplicate petitions, by companies, so that applicants could have a greater chance of getting through the lottery had become a normal practice.

USCIS has also said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of "As Soon As Possible" or "ASAP."

Expecting a huge rush of application beginning tomorrow and greater scrutiny of all petitions, which would require much more man hours, USCIS has also temporarily suspended premium processing.

"We will announce the start date for premium processing in the near future," USCIS said.

As of now, USCIS has not indicated if it plans to go for a computerised draw of lots as has been the case in previous years after receiving several times more than the Congressional mandated cap of H-1B visas.

"Complete all sections of the form accurately. The petitioner should include a copy of the beneficiary's valid passport," USCIS said.

If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he/she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid nonimmigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips.

Given the general campaign against highly skilled Indian professionals, the applications by Indian companies are likely to face a greater scrutiny of all these petitions.

As in the previous years, Indian companies would have to pay much more fee per application than those from other countries. On an average, they are required to pay USD 6,000 to the federal government per H-1B application.

And by then time the successful applicant appear before the American diplomatic missions -- embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers in the last five years.

On Friday, the State Department issued a formal notification in this regard which would come into force after 90 days.

Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country.

"Yet, too many American workers who are as qualified, willing, and deserving to work in these fields have been ignored or unfairly disadvantaged. Employers who abuse the H-1B visa program may negatively affect US workers, decreasing wages and opportunities as they import more foreign workers," it said.

Protecting American workers by combating fraud in our employment-based immigration programs is a priority for USCIS, it said, adding that it is furthering its efforts by enhancing and increasing site visits, interviews, and investigations of petitioners who use the H-1B visa programme.

"These efforts will help assist in the prosecution of program violators and ensure that American workers are not overlooked or replaced in the process," USCIS said.

The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise

The process of filing petitions for H-1B, considered as the most sought-after work visa among highly skilled Indian professionals, begins tomorrow amidst unprecedented scrutiny by the Trump Administration. A strong indication is coming from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the federal agency which is responsible to process all H-1B visas, that there will be zero tolerance by it for even minor errors. Chatter at various social media platforms and groups indicate that immigration attorneys this time expect a much high rate of rejection. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The H1-B visa has an annual numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap. Days ahead of the start of the H-1B visa application process for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 this year USCIS warned that all duplicate applications would be subject to rejection. In previous years filing of duplicate petitions, by companies, so that applicants could have a greater chance of getting through the lottery had become a normal practice. USCIS has also said that it will reject H-1B petitions requesting an earlier employment start date or a start date of "As Soon As Possible" or "ASAP." Expecting a huge rush of application beginning tomorrow and greater scrutiny of all petitions, which would require much more man hours, USCIS has also temporarily suspended premium processing. "We will announce the start date for premium processing in the near future," USCIS said. As of now, USCIS has not indicated if it plans to go for a computerised draw of lots as has been the case in previous years after receiving several times more than the Congressional mandated cap of H-1B visas. "Complete all sections of the form accurately. The petitioner should include a copy of the beneficiary's valid passport," USCIS said. If the applicant is seeking an extension of stay or change of status, he/she should include evidence to establish that the beneficiary will maintain a valid nonimmigrant status through the employment start date being requested, USCIS said in its filing tips. Given the general campaign against highly skilled Indian professionals, the applications by Indian companies are likely to face a greater scrutiny of all these petitions. As in the previous years, Indian companies would have to pay much more fee per application than those from other countries. On an average, they are required to pay USD 6,000 to the federal government per H-1B application. And by then time the successful applicant appear before the American diplomatic missions -- embassies and consulates for a formal visa interview and stamping on their passport, they would have to be ready with details of the social media profile, emails and phone numbers in the last five years. On Friday, the State Department issued a formal notification in this regard which would come into force after 90 days. Ahead of the H-1B visa filing process, USCIS said this work visa should help US companies recruit highly-skilled foreign nationals when there is a shortage of qualified workers in the country. "Yet, too many American workers who are as qualified, willing, and deserving to work in these fields have been ignored or unfairly disadvantaged. Employers who abuse the H-1B visa program may negatively affect US workers, decreasing wages and opportunities as they import more foreign workers," it said. Protecting American workers by combating fraud in our employment-based immigration programs is a priority for USCIS, it said, adding that it is furthering its efforts by enhancing and increasing site visits, interviews, and investigations of petitioners who use the H-1B visa programme. "These efforts will help assist in the prosecution of program violators and ensure that American workers are not overlooked or replaced in the process," USCIS said.

H-1B application process begins tomorrow; likely to face unprecedented scrutiny

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