I think you need to learn to have some empathy. Nobody is asking for an easy way in. If you want to have a high bar for people who would be in US then make the application process clear and do not approve the visas. Better yet, if they believe they have enough people in here and they have all the talent they need, do not take the applications in the first place. But making them go through the entire process and approving their visas and then you tell them you don't know when they can have the appointment is plain cruel.

Set the standards high but not painful.

Also, I don't get the talk about privilege. US govt is letting people in because they are getting something out of it. On the other hand people are coming here because they are gaining something as well. Nobody is doing any charity work. It is a give and take on both sides.

> it’s fine if it’s hard and painful

That’s sadistic. Making visa requirements high(er)/stricter is one thing. Making the process painful shows your morality (or its absence, unfortunately) more than anything else.