US Tightens H-1B Visa Rules, Leading to 38% Drop in Registrations

Featured & Cover US Tightens H 1B Visa Rules Leading to 38% Drop in Registrations

The US administration has overhauled the H-1B visa selection process, introducing stricter regulations aimed at enhancing fairness, transparency, and efficiency in hiring foreign talent. According to a report by the Times of India, these changes have resulted in a notable 38% decline in H-1B registrations compared to the previous year.

Previously, the system allowed multiple employers to submit registrations for the same candidate, significantly increasing an applicant’s chances of selection. Under the new rules, however, only one registration is permitted per beneficiary, regardless of how many employers support the application. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) explained that these adjustments are intended to prevent manipulative practices and establish a more level playing field for all applicants.

In the current fiscal year, USCIS received 479,953 registrations, a sharp decrease from the 758,994 recorded in 2024. Out of these, 470,342 registrations were considered eligible. The number of unique beneficiaries saw a slight decline, falling from 446,000 in 2024 to approximately 442,000 in 2025. Additionally, the average number of registrations per beneficiary dropped from 1.70 to 1.06, illustrating the significant impact of the new regulations on the application process.

The H-1B Visa and Its Strong Link to India

India remains a dominant force in the H-1B visa landscape. In 2023, Indian applicants accounted for 72.3% of the 386,000 H-1B visas issued. For countless Indian tech professionals, the H-1B visa represents a critical pathway to employment opportunities in the United States. The visa is initially granted for three years but can be extended up to six years, making it a vital option for skilled workers seeking long-term career prospects in the US.

While the registration process requires applicants to pay a $10 fee to USCIS, the challenges don’t end there. Securing consular appointments for submitting required documents has become increasingly competitive. Although all H-1B Dropbox submissions are processed through the US Consulate in Chennai, applicants have the option to submit their documents at various visa centers across India.

The revised rules also aim to simplify the renewal process for thousands of current H-1B visa holders. This change is expected to alleviate some of the appointment backlogs at US consulates, potentially reducing wait times for applicants. Despite these potential benefits, the sharp decline in registrations raises concerns about the long-term effects of the new system on both applicants and employers.

By restricting multiple registrations for the same individual, the US administration hopes to foster a more equitable selection process. However, the broader implications of these changes are still unfolding, leaving many to wonder how they will impact the future of the H-1B program and the global workforce it supports.

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