Public Policy Research

The Bottom of the Pay Scale: Wages for H-1B Computer Programmers

Written By: John Miano
Published In: Backgrounder
Publication Date: December 1, 2005
Publisher: Center for Immigration Studies

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The temporary visa program known as H-1B enables U.S. employers to hire professional-level foreign workers for a period of up to six years. According to the law (8 U.S.C. § 1182(n)), employers must pay H-1B workers either the same rate as other employees with similar skills and qualifications or the "prevailing wage" for that occupation and location, whichever is higher. This is to prevent the hiring of foreign workers from depressing U.S. wages and to protect foreign workers from exploitation.