H-1B Visa Program Changes: What It Means for Your Workforce

The H-1B visa remains one of the most effective ways to access specialized global talent, particularly in fields like engineering, computer science, healthcare, and architecture. While the program has always been competitive—with only 65,000 standard visas and 20,000 additional visas for U.S. graduate degree holders available annually—recent policy changes are reshaping how companies manage H-1B hiring.

With demand consistently outpacing supply, the lottery system determines most selections. Companies must navigate compliance requirements such as Labor Condition Applications, prevailing wage standards, and detailed documentation of job duties and qualifications. When executed well, the H-1B program can play a critical role in filling essential skill gaps.

Recent Policy Changes Related to H-1B

The $100,000 Application Fee

As of September 2025, most new H-1B applications require a $100,000 fee—a significant increase designed to focus the program on higher-value, specialized positions. This change reshapes the cost-benefit calculation for H-1B hiring and requires companies to be more selective about which roles justify this investment.

Wage-Weighted Lottery on the Horizon

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed shifting from a random lottery to a wage-weighted system, where petitions with higher salaries receive preference. If implemented, this change will likely raise salary benchmarks for H-1B roles and potentially remove many entry-level positions from consideration.

Enhanced Oversight and Compliance

New regulations effective in early 2025 have tightened the definition of “specialty occupations” and increased government oversight of H-1B placements. Companies should expect more frequent site visits and detailed reviews to ensure job duties align with stated qualifications. The regulations also provide added protection for international students during status transitions.

How Companies Are Responding to Potential H-1B Updates

We’re seeing strategic shifts across industries. Many companies have reduced their U.S. H-1B dependency, expanded offshore capabilities, and adjusted workforce planning to manage regulatory uncertainty. At the same time, political scrutiny around potential displacement of U.S. workers has intensified, particularly after recent layoffs in technology, financial services, and retail sectors.

These developments signal a need for more deliberate workforce planning that balances global talent acquisition with domestic development initiatives.

Strategic Considerations for Your Organization

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The new fee structure requires careful evaluation of which positions generate sufficient value to justify the investment. This analysis should consider both direct costs and the strategic importance of specific roles to long-term goals.

Compensation and Role Design

Potential wage-weighted lottery systems suggest companies should review current salary structures for H-1B eligible positions. Roles may need to be redesigned to emphasize specialized requirements and support competitive pay levels.

Talent Pipeline Diversification

Reducing dependence on H-1B visas through stronger domestic talent development—including university partnerships, apprenticeship programs, and internal reskilling initiatives—provides greater workforce stability and flexibility.

Compliance Infrastructure

Enhanced government oversight requires robust documentation and process alignment across HR, legal, and payroll functions. Companies need systems that can withstand detailed scrutiny and demonstrate ongoing compliance with program requirements.

Strategic Timing and Planning

Given the program’s strict filing deadlines and increased unpredictability, workforce planning must account for potential delays, denials, and policy changes. Critical hires may need to be initiated earlier in the cycle with backup strategies in place.

Recommended Next Steps From MBO Partners

Conduct a Workforce Assessment

Evaluate your current H-1B population, the roles they fill, and associated costs under the new fee structure. This analysis will identify which positions are most vulnerable to policy changes and help prioritize future hiring decisions.

Consider Scenario Planning

Model different policy outcomes—higher fees, wage-based selection, stricter occupation definitions—to understand potential impacts on your talent strategy. This preparation enables proactive rather than reactive decision-making.

Strengthen Talent Development

Invest in programs that expand global and local talent pipelines through education partnerships, upskilling initiatives, and professional development opportunities. Collaborating with a talent solutions provider that connects you to skilled professionals across multiple disciplines can reinforce this strategy. Together, these efforts build a stronger, more adaptable workforce prepared to meet evolving business needs.

Enhance Compliance Capabilities

Ensure your organization can meet heightened regulatory requirements through improved documentation, process standardization, and cross-functional coordination. Strong compliance reduces the risk of delays, denials, and penalties.

Stay Informed and Engaged

Monitor ongoing policy developments and participate in industry discussions where appropriate. Clear communication with employees and stakeholders about potential changes helps maintain organizational stability during periods of uncertainty.

The H-1B program continues to offer significant value for accessing specialized global talent, but success increasingly requires strategic thinking, careful planning, and expert execution. We’re here to help you navigate these complexities and develop a strategy that aligns with your specific business needs and objectives. For more info on international workforce solutions, visit our international engagement program page.