The H-1B lottery is reportedly seeing a sharp rise in selection rates. Many immigration firms say the rate has crossed 50 percent this year. While this may look like good news, the ground reality is more complex.
The increase is mainly linked to a new $100,000 fee for hiring H-1B workers from outside the US. This cost has made many employers step back. As a result, the number of applicants has dropped significantly.
Although official data from USCIS is not yet released, several firms have shared early trends. BAL, Ogletree Deakins, Erickson Immigration Group, and Boundless Immigration have all reported unusually high selection rates.
In some cases, selection rates have crossed 60 percent. Such numbers were considered unlikely just a year ago. This shows a clear shift in the system.
At the same time, changes in the lottery system have also played a role. The new weighted lottery is said to favour senior and higher-paid applicants. Entry-level candidates now face tougher competition.
This means the improved chances are not due to more opportunities. Instead, fewer people are applying. The drop in participation has made selection easier for those already in the system.
Reports suggest that registrations have fallen sharply. The numbers may be nearly one-third of what they were a few years ago. Many universities, hospitals, and tech firms are slowing down overseas hiring.
There is also growing uncertainty around future policies. Court cases are challenging the new fee. At the same time, revised wage rules could further increase hiring costs.
For Indian tech professionals, the situation is mixed. It may now be easier to get selected. However, it has become harder to even enter the process due to rising barriers.
