The H-1B visa program in the United States is designed to enable employers to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis in specialty occupations. These roles necessitate the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, typically requiring a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent as a minimum qualification.
Essentially, the H-1B visa exists to bridge talent gaps in the U.S. workforce. When American companies face challenges in finding individuals with the necessary skills and expertise within the domestic labor pool, the H-1B program allows them to employ qualified foreign nationals. This ensures that businesses can continue to innovate and grow by accessing global talent. The core intention is to provide a pathway for employers to secure crucial skills not readily available in the U.S. workforce, by temporarily employing skilled individuals authorized to work in the United States.
However, the program includes important safeguards. These measures are in place to protect both U.S. workers and H-1B visa holders. A key requirement is that employers must attest to the Department of Labor, guaranteeing that H-1B workers receive fair wages. Specifically, the salary must be at least the same as what is paid to American workers in similar positions with comparable experience and qualifications, or the prevailing wage for the occupation within the specific geographic area of employment – whichever is higher. This wage protection ensures that hiring H-1B workers does not negatively impact the wages of similarly employed U.S. professionals.
