With the uncertainty around H1B Visa policies every few years, is it wise for foreign workers to rely on it for their career planning, or should they look for more stable options?

I think it depends on one’s goals. If the dream is specifically to work in Silicon Valley or for a major U.S. company, then taking the risk might be worth it. Many people do eventually succeed, and the rewards can be immense. But if the goal is simply global exposure and career growth, then yes, there are safer alternatives. Canada, for example, offers direct permanent residency options for skilled workers without the uncertainty of a lottery. So the question isn’t whether H1B is wise—it’s whether the potential payoff outweighs the instability for the individual.

From a purely career-planning perspective, relying on H1B is risky. The lottery system, political swings, and frequent policy changes make it too unstable to count on as a long-term plan. Many workers spend years in limbo, unsure if they’ll stay or be forced to leave. For ambitious professionals, it’s smarter to have backup strategies: - Consider Canada, Australia, or the EU, which have more predictable immigration systems. - Explore remote-first careers where location is less critical. - Treat the U.S. as an opportunity, not a guarantee. That said, if someone does win the H1B, it can still be life-changing. But betting your entire future solely on it? Not wise.