Core Insights - The tightening of H-1B visa rules by the Trump administration is creating barriers for foreign skilled workers, particularly with the introduction of a $100,000 petition fee and a focus on higher-wage roles [3][4] - The cryptocurrency industry presents an alternative pathway for skilled professionals to enter the US, as it is characterized by a shortage of qualified talent and allows for the demonstration of skills through public contributions [2][5] Immigration Policy Changes - A new $100,000 surcharge on H-1B petitions was imposed, affecting new applicants while extensions and renewals remain exempt [3] - The administration's reforms prioritize higher-wage and specialized roles, making it more challenging for entry-level and mid-salary applicants to secure visas [3][4] Impact on Hiring - H-1B registrations for FY 2026 have decreased by 26.9% compared to the previous year, indicating a significant impact on hiring decisions across various sectors including tech, healthcare, and finance [4] Opportunities in Crypto - The crypto industry is global and remote-first, with a high demand for developers, cryptographers, and tokenomics experts who can validate their contributions through open-source projects and public engagements [5] - Visa categories such as O-1 for "extraordinary ability" and EB-1A or EB-2 NIW green cards are accessible for crypto professionals, as these categories reward public achievements and contributions to national interest [6] Career Tracks in Crypto - Certain technical roles within the crypto sector, such as protocol engineering and smart contract auditing, provide measurable proof of expertise, which can strengthen immigration cases [7]