85k is new visas. Old visas need renewal every few years and that needs a new application and approval. In addition, if a visa holder changes their job, they ne

85k is new visas. Old visas need renewal every few years and that needs a new application and approval. In addition, if a visa holder changes their job, they need to transfer their visa to the new employer. That also counts. No matter what the real numbers are, the 85k ceiling is strictly enforced, meaning the program introduces up to 85k new people per year, excluding their dependents. Their dependents cannot work in the US though.