When it comes to certain professional areas, there can be at times a lack of qualified personnel that can carry out necessary tasks. As a result, California employers may wish to hire individuals from other countries who could potentially be able to work in the United States on H-1B visas. However, there is a cap on the number of these visas that are allowed, and some companies are hoping that immigration reform could potentially increase that cap.
Some companies in the technological industry believe that there are too few qualified workers in the field. They also apparently believe that due to the cap on H-1B visas, they are unable to hire needed employees who are able to carry out the duties. They state that there are more open positions than there are individuals who are able to fill the spots.
On the other hand, some parties are concerned that the push for more H-1B visas is because in many cases, foreign workers are paid less than domestic workers. At this time, a debate continues as to whether the demand for workers is more than those available or if there are truly more workers than there are positions. As with many immigration and visa issues, the answers and results may not be available until immigration reform is settled.
H-1B visas can be beneficial for workers from other countries who are looking for employment in the United States as well as employers. However, because there is a cap on the number of these visas, not all individuals may be able to obtain the visa. As the push for an increase on the cap continues, concerned individuals living in California may wish to stay updated on how laws regarding these visas may change as immigration reform continues to be debated.
Source: CIO.com, As IT Presses for More H-1B Visas, Academics Question STEM Worker Shortage, Kenneth Corbin, March 17, 2014