The Trump administration on Tuesday proposed changes to the H-1B visa programme to favour higher-paid, more skilled workers and end the existing lottery system.
These proposed changes come just days after the White House introduced a one-time $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications.
The new proposal aims to implement a weighted selection process that prioritises visas for higher-skilled and better-paid workers, while still allowing employers to hire workers at all wage levels.
According to a notice in the Federal Register, the proposed changes aim to prioritise visa petitions from employers who offer higher wages. If the number of applications exceeds the annual cap of 85,000, those offering better pay will receive preference, Reuters reported.
Officials say the move is intended to