美国H-1B签证大变：高薪岗位优先，普通外籍“打工人”越来越难

Core Viewpoint - The new "weighted selection" mechanism for H-1B visas in the U.S. prioritizes high-salary applicants over a random lottery system, making it increasingly difficult for lower-skilled foreign workers to enter the U.S. job market [2][4]. Group 1: New Regulations and Their Implications - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that starting February 27, 2026, the H-1B visa application process will shift from a random lottery to a weighted selection system based on salary levels [2]. - Applicants will be categorized into four salary tiers, with those in the highest tier receiving four chances to enter the selection pool, while those in the lowest tier will have only one chance [2][4]. - The annual cap for new H-1B visas is set at 85,000, with 20,000 reserved for applicants holding a master's degree or higher [4]. Group 2: Impact on Different Applicant Groups - Experienced applicants with salaries that match the third or fourth salary tiers will have a competitive advantage, while entry-level applicants and small employers in low-cost regions will be the most affected [3]. - The new regulations signify a shift from "luck" to "merit" in the application process, favoring those with higher qualifications and salaries [4]. Group 3: Broader Trends in U.S. Immigration Policy - The changes reflect a broader trend towards an "elite" and "market-oriented" immigration system, prioritizing high-skilled foreign talent and those who can contribute significantly to the U.S. economy [6]. - Recent reforms, including increased application fees and the introduction of the "Trump Golden Card" visa, indicate a focus on attracting top talent based on capital investment rather than labor demand [6][7]. Group 4: Legal and Administrative Challenges - A recent court ruling upheld the legality of increased fees for H-1B visa applications, which could further hinder small companies from applying [9][10]. - The implementation of social media scrutiny for H-1B applicants and their families has led to significant delays in visa processing, affecting many foreign workers [10].