H-1B Visa Approvals Hit Five-Year Low, Despite Sharp Rise In Filings

The approval rate for H-1B visa petitions has fallen to a five-year low, with only 328,185 out of 456,725 applications approved during the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This decline is notable despite a significant uptick in the number of filings, highlighting a tightening scrutiny of applications by U.S. immigration authorities. The H-1B visa program, which allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, has been a critical pathway for Indian professionals seeking opportunities in the U.S. tech industry. This trend is indicative of broader immigration policy shifts under the current administration, which have raised concerns among Indian IT firms and professionals relying on this visa category. The reduced approval rates may impact workforce planning and hiring strategies for tech companies, potentially leading to a reevaluation of reliance on foreign talent. As the landscape of U.S. immigration continues to evolve, stakeholders in India’s tech sector are closely monitoring these developments, which could have significant implications for their operations and growth prospects in the global market.