The U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services have observed a sudden surge in H-1B visa applications in 2023, smashing all previous records. The ‘Garden State’ of New Jersey, renowned for its diverse workforce, has shown an intriguing trend in this upswing, stirring discussions among economists and immigration experts alike. Here are some key facts about the recent H-1B visa application record set in the U.S.
Understanding an H-1B visa
An H-1B visa allows a foreign worker to live and work in the United States for up to three years, which you can extend for another three years. This type of visa is typically reserved for highly skilled workers, such as engineers, computer scientists, and medical professionals. To qualify for an H-1B visa, candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree or higher in their field of study and possess specialized knowledge or skills that are not readily available in the U.S. labor market.
Reasons for the surge
The surge in H-1B visa applications in the country is due to the record low denial rate of 2% and the ease of sponsoring foreign workers. There is a growing global interest among individuals from various countries to pursue employment opportunities in the United States. In fact, the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services reported that they received 780,884 H-1B registrations for the year 2024, which is an increase of 61% compared to the previous year.
Moreover, with the growing tech sector in the country, business immigration is becoming increasingly popular. This has caused the U.S. visa application process to be more lenient and accessible for qualified individuals, paving a path for more foreign workers to enter the market.
The substantial increase in H-1B visa applications in 2023 reflects a shift in global employment trends, with the United States emerging as a desirable destination for highly skilled foreign workers. Notably, the tech boom in states like New Jersey is transforming the country’s labor market, attracting global talent and fueling innovation. This trend, if sustained, can have lasting implications on the ever-evolving face of the American labor market and overall economic growth.
