The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialized fields, particularly in technology, engineering, and healthcare. While the program remains a critical tool for attracting high-skilled talent, it has become a political flashpoint among Republicans, with tech leaders advocating for expansion while others argue it displaces American workers.
H-1B Visa Approvals Are Rising
In 2024, nearly 400,000 H-1B applications were approved, more than twice the number approved in 2000.
- 65% of approvals (258,196) were renewals for workers already in the U.S.
- 35% (141,207) were new applications for initial employment.
- Approvals peaked in 2022 at 442,425 applications.
H-1B Denial Rates: Trump vs. Biden
During Trump’s first term, denial rates surged, reaching a 15% rejection rate in 2018 due to stricter immigration policies.
- Initial employment denials: 24% (2018)
- Renewal denials: 12% (2018)
Under Biden, denial rates fell below 3%, largely due to court rulings striking down Trump-era restrictions.
Who Receives H-1B Visas?
- India dominates the program, with 73% of H-1B approvals in 2023.
- China ranks second at 12%.
- No other country accounted for more than 2% of approvals.
Education and Occupations of H-1B Workers
| Degree Level | 2000 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | 31% | 57% |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 57% | 34% |
| Doctorate | 6-13% | 6-13% |
| Professional Degree (J.D., M.D.) | 2-6% | 2-6% |
The vast majority of H-1B workers are in tech-related fields:
- 65% held computer-related jobs in 2023, with a median salary of $123,600.
- 9% worked in engineering and architecture, earning a median of $115,000.
Top Employers of H-1B Workers
| Employer | H-1B Approvals (2023) |
|---|---|
| Amazon | 11,000+ |
| Cognizant Technology Solutions | 8,000+ |
| Infosys | 6,000+ |
| Tata Consultancy Services | 5,000+ |
| 4,500+ |
Where Are H-1B Workers Employed?
The New York metro area leads the nation in H-1B approvals, with 55,000+ in 2023. Other top locations include:
- Washington, D.C. (30,000+)
- San Jose, CA (30,000+)
College Station, Texas, has the highest concentration of H-1B approvals at 7 per 100 workers.
Public Opinion on H-1B Visas
A 2024 Pew Research Center survey found:
- 40% of Americans believe high-skilled workers should be the top priority for legal immigration.
- 60% say legal immigrants fill jobs that U.S. citizens don’t want.
The Future of the H-1B Program
With Trump’s current H-1B policy under review, the program’s future remains uncertain. Calls for reform, increased oversight, and potential expansion are shaping the ongoing debate.
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