H-1B visa fee hiked | How your pay and skills will play a bigger role in process

With the US government introducing a $100,000 one-time fee for new H-1B visa applications and proposing wage-based selection, salary levels, and skills have become decisive factors in visa approvals.

Here’s how:

Higher salaries improve selection chances

Under the proposed merit-based system, applicants who are offered higher wages will be prioritized over those earning less. Employers that can demonstrate salaries well above the prevailing wage level will boost an applicant's odds.

Specialized skills gain more value

Roles in high-demand sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, biotech, and advanced engineering are more likely to justify higher wages, giving those applicants a stronger edge.

Mid-level roles face greater risk

The $100,000 fee may discourage compan