The H1B Visa is often seen as benefiting mostly Indian IT professionals. Should the U.S. diversify the program to ensure equal opportunities for applicants from all countries?

Honestly, I think the debate is misplaced. The reason Indian professionals dominate the H1B Visa is simple: they apply the most. India has a huge IT outsourcing industry that files tens of thousands of applications each year. If professionals from other countries applied at the same scale, the numbers might look different. So instead of artificially diversifying, the U.S. should just ensure the process is fair. Whoever qualifies should get it, regardless of nationality. Artificially balancing the pool might end up hurting U.S. employers who are just trying to hire the best talent.

It’s true that the majority of H1B Visas go to Indian IT professionals, largely because India produces a massive number of STEM graduates. But I don’t think this is inherently unfair. The visa is supposed to be based on demand and employer needs, not nationality. If most employers want Indian engineers, then naturally most visas go to them. That said, if the U.S. wants diversity, it could set aside quotas for underrepresented countries. But this may reduce efficiency — companies might end up with workers who are less suited just to tick a diversity box. In my opinion, merit and demand should be the primary drivers, not nationality.

I believe diversification is important. The H1B Visa shouldn’t be dominated by one nationality, no matter how talented that group is. A global workforce brings different perspectives and innovations. If the system is heavily tilted toward one country, it reduces the richness of diversity. The U.S. could learn from other countries that balance immigration by setting regional quotas or by prioritizing certain industries. This doesn’t mean excluding Indian professionals, but ensuring that talent from Africa, South America, and Europe also has opportunities. That would make the program healthier and more balanced.

I’d support a middle ground. Don’t cap one nationality, but maybe encourage broader outreach. For example, the U.S. government could partner with universities or industries in countries that are underrepresented, making sure they know how to apply. This way, the pool becomes more diverse organically, without putting artificial restrictions on Indian applicants who are clearly in demand.