Big news for the H-1B visa program! The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a significant change, ditching the long-standing lottery system for a new approach that prioritizes higher-skilled and higher-paid foreign workers.
Historically, H-1B visas – crucial for bringing specialized talent to the U.S., especially in tech and medical fields – were awarded through a random draw. Critics often argued this system was exploited, allowing companies to import workers at lower wages, potentially impacting American jobs. Proponents, however, stressed the program’s importance for innovation, economic growth, and filling critical skill gaps in sectors like healthcare and education.
The new system, which goes into effect for the H-1B cap registration season on February 27, 2026, will use a “weighted selection process.” This means that applicants with higher qualifications and higher proposed salaries will have a much greater chance of securing a visa. This move aims to ensure the program truly attracts top-tier global talent, aligning with previous efforts to reform the visa landscape.
Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have historically been major recipients of H-1B visas. This shift signals a clear focus on attracting individuals who can make the most significant contributions, moving away from a random draw towards a merit-based selection.
The goal is to prevent wage suppression and ensure the H-1B program fulfills its purpose: to bring in the best international expertise to enhance, rather than displace, the U.S. workforce.
