The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a significant change to the H-1B visa selection process, replacing the traditional lottery system with a wage-weighted approach. This new rule will take effect on February 27, 2026, and aims to prioritize higher salaries in the selection of H-1B applicants, thereby enhancing the chances for skilled workers in high-demand fields.
Key Details:
- New system effective: February 27, 2026
- Replaces: Random lottery selection for H-1B visas
- Salary levels: Based on Department of Labor (DOL) wage levels I-IV
- Impact: Higher salary levels will increase selection odds significantly, with senior positions having up to 20 times better chances than entry-level roles.
This change is expected to favor experienced professionals, particularly in technology sectors, and may alter the landscape of H-1B applications significantly.
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Source: @TechTrustLegal