Business Insider recently included Divij Kishore, immigration attorney at Flagship Law, in its coverage examining how ongoing changes to the H-1B visa program are reshaping employer decision-making across the United States.
The article, “Immigration Lawyers Say the H-1B Chaos Is Forcing Tough Business Calls,” explores the ripple effects of a series of rapid policy shifts, including the introduction of a $100,000 fee on certain new H-1B applications, expanded vetting requirements, and upcoming changes to the H-1B lottery system.
Kishore shared that uncertainty surrounding costs and compliance has led many employers to pause or scale back sponsorship plans. He noted seeing a 40% to 50% decline in H-1B sponsorship inquiries, explaining that many companies are hesitant to move forward without clarity on future expenses and regulatory risk.
“This year, employers are just not sure what the costs are,” Kishore told Business Insider, adding that companies are increasingly cautious compared to prior years when spring lottery planning was already underway.
The article also highlights how employers are exploring alternative visa strategies, including L-1, O-1, E-2, and EB-1C options, as well as shifting certain operations overseas to maintain staffing flexibility. Kishore noted that some businesses are proactively building offshore capacity in anticipation of continued volatility.
Looking ahead, the piece examines the 2026 wage-based H-1B lottery, which will favor higher-paid applicants. Kishore cautioned that salary does not always correlate with skill level and that the new structure may disadvantage early-career professionals, students, and smaller employers.
Through his commentary, Kishore underscores Flagship Law’s role in helping businesses navigate evolving immigration policy with strategic foresight, compliance awareness, and practical planning.
Read the full Business Insider article:
Immigration Lawyers Say the H-1B Chaos Is Forcing Tough Business Calls