US: Biden administration proposes H-1B visa reforms to address tech industry concerns
Washington DC (US), October 24: The Biden administration has unveiled proposed reforms for the 
programme, aiming to address concerns about its potential misuse by major tech companies, according to a report by Fox Business. The Department of Homeland Security has initiated a rulemaking process to simplify eligibility criteria, provide greater flexibility for both employers and foreign workers, and combat fraud and abuse within the programme.
The H-1B visa programme, primarily utilised by the tech industry, saw Amazon as the leader in approved petitions for FY 2021, followed by Google, IBM, and Microsoft. Advocates of the programme argue that it fills labour market gaps without adversely affecting wages.
Key aspects of the proposed rule include clarifying the acceptable range of degrees to meet education requirements, expanding exemptions for non-profit organisations and government research entities, enhancing flexibility for students transitioning to H-1B visas, and implementing measures to prevent abuse, such as site visits and restrictions on multiple applications for the same beneficiary.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated, "DHS continues to develop and implement regulations that increase efficiency and improve processes for employers and workers navigating the immigration system. The Biden-Harris Administration's priority is to attract global talent, reduce undue burdens on employers, and prevent fraud and abuse in the immigration system," as reported by Fox Business.
While these proposed reforms aim to address criticisms, some critics have called for the complete elimination of the H-1B programme. Former Vice President Mike Pence had previously advocated for banning H-1B visas for Chinese nationals in the tech industry due to concerns about national security and intellectual property threats. Representative Jim Banks introduced legislation to establish a wage floor for H-1B recipients, matching the salaries of American workers in equivalent positions or a minimum of $110,000, whichever is higher. Additionally, presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy expressed intentions to "gut" the programme if elected, advocating for a merit-based admission system to replace the current lottery system.
- ANI
