India? Isn’t that where everyone is above average?
In fiscal year 2024, approximately 283,397 Indian nationals received H-1B visas, representing about 71% of all approvals. The median salary for H-1B visa holders in 2024 was $120,000, although nearly 60% of Indian H-1B holders earned $100,000 or less.
While many H-1B roles are specialized, particularly in computer-related fields, there are differing views on whether the roles are consistently “average-grade” or skilled.
Total approvals for Indians (FY2024): 283,397
Percentage of all H-1B approvals: ~71%
Second-highest country: China, with 46,680 visas (11.7%)
Salary and occupational categories
Median salary: $120,000 in 2024
Indian salaries:
Nearly 60% earned $100,000 or less.
About 47% earned between $75,000 and $100,000.
40% earned over $100,000.
“Systems analysis and programming” was the largest detailed occupational group, representing 52% of all beneficiaries.
The H-1B visa is designed for professionals in “specialty occupations” requiring specialized knowledge. Some argue that H-1B visa holders are crucial for filling skill gaps in fields like AI.
Some critics, including an Indian-origin professor at Howard University, have argued that a significant number of H-1B visa holders are performing “average-grade labor” that could be supplied domestically. This has sparked debate about the current system’s ability to protect both foreign and American workers and prevent wage depression.