New Reforms for H-1B Visa Expected to support Filipino Americans

Revised regulations expand opportunities for Filipino professionals in tech, healthcare, and entrepreneurship while addressing U.S. workforce needs.

By André Averion, Communications Chair

Published January 3, 2025.

Recent reforms to the H-1B visa program are poised to significantly impact Filipino professionals seeking employment in the United States. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has introduced changes aimed at refining the program's criteria and enforcement mechanisms. 

A key aspect of the reform is the revision of the definition of "specialty occupations," which now encompasses a broader range of professions. This expansion allows more Filipino professionals in fields such as technology, healthcare, and engineering to qualify for H-1B visas, thereby increasing their employment prospects in the U.S.

According to a study by the American Immigration Council in October 2024, Dallas is the fourth largest recipient of H-1B professionals. The study suggests H-1B workers, in particular, have been linked to lower unemployment rates in their fields, increased patent activity, and heightened venture capital interest, specifically in the healthcare and biotech industry.  Restrictions on H-1B visas often push multinational companies to shift jobs overseas. Contrary to misconceptions, H-1B workers earn competitive wages, with a 2021 median salary of $108,000, significantly higher than the U.S. median. Their wages have also grown faster than the national average over the past two decades.

These changes come amid ongoing debates within the U.S. political landscape regarding the H-1B program. Notably, President-elect Donald Trump has expressed support for the program, acknowledging its role in bringing skilled talent to the U.S., losing him some favor with his party. This stance aligns with views from tech industry leaders who advocate for high-skilled immigration to maintain America's competitive edge. 

The reforms have also clarified the criteria for nonprofit and governmental research organizations, enabling these entities to sponsor H-1B visas without being subject to annual limitations. This change facilitates continuous opportunities for Filipino researchers and academics to contribute to U.S. institutions. 

The updated regulations also extend the Optional Practical Training (OPT) period for F-1 students transitioning to H-1B status. This extension ensures that Filipino students graduating from U.S. universities can maintain employment authorization, allowing them to seamlessly integrate into the American workforce. 

Furthermore, the reforms introduced provisions that support entrepreneurial ventures, encouraging Filipino entrepreneurs to establish startups in the U.S. By providing clearer pathways for immigrant entrepreneurs, the U.S. aims to foster innovation and economic growth. 

For U.S. employers, the reforms offer an expanded talent pool and streamlined visa processing, enabling them to address skill shortages more effectively. The inclusion of more Filipino professionals is expected to enhance diversity and bring valuable perspectives to various industries.

The recent H-1B visa reforms present new opportunities for Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs, facilitating their contributions to the U.S. economy and strengthening bilateral ties between the Philippines and the United States.