Temporary Positions for Foreign Workers – Senate Committee Increases H-1B Visa Cap

Temporary Positions for Foreign Workers – Senate Committee Increases H-1B Visa Cap

Previously set at 65,000 per year, and derided as being too low by the business community, the H-1B visa cap has been increased by 30,000 by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The cap increase will be in effect for the next 5 years. The H-1B program allows employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers to temporary positions and includes an annual fee for employers. The additional 30,000 visas will also be accompanied by a $500 fee.

The original proposal, which would have increased the H-1B visa number by 60,000, was amended by the Senate committee to ensure broader support on the Senate floor. Additionally, a new $750 fee has been imposed for L-1 visas, which are granted to multinational companies to temporarily transfer foreign employees to their U.S. offices.