United States: H-1B lottery replaced by weighted (wage-based) selection

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT
Visa & immigration

United States — USCIS finalised a rule replacing the randomised H-1B lottery with a weighted selection system that prioritises higher-paid roles. Registrations are weighted at different rates depending on the prevailing-wage level (Level I receives the lowest weight; Level IV the highest). Effective 27 February 2026; applies to the FY2027 cap registration season.
Who it affects: All H-1B cap-subject employers and prospective registrants from FY2027 onwards.
Source: USCIS — US Citizenship and Immigration Services (verified 2026-04-19)