The H-1B program, capped at 85,000 new visas annually, has grown significantly over the past two decades, with more than 400,000 approvals in 2024 — the majority being renewals.
Each year, tens of thousands of skilled foreign professionals enter the U.S. through the H-1B visa program, filling key roles in technology, engineering, and business. New data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) shows California leading the nation with 61,814 H-1B visa approvals in 2024, followed by Texas, New York, Virginia, and New Jersey.
States with large tech, health care, and finance sectors accounted for the highest numbers, while smaller states such as Montana, Wyoming, and Vermont recorded fewer than 200 approvals. Experts say the numbers highlight stark regional differences in labor demand but also caution against misinterpretation.
“The numbers can be quite misleading if you are unfamiliar with the data,” said Jeff Lande, president of the Lande Group. He explained that USCIS figures combine both new and renewed visas, with individuals often receiving multiple renewals in a year.
The H-1B program, capped at 85,000 new visas annually, has grown significantly over the past two decades, with more than 400,000 approvals in 2024 — the majority being renewals.
Many recipients work for tech giants such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, underscoring the reliance of U.S. corporations on foreign talent.
Meanwhile, the White House is reviewing a Department of Homeland Security proposal that could alter how visas are allocated. Industry leaders warn that potential restrictions may face legal challenges.