US Replaces H-1B Lottery with Wage-Based Selection for FY2027

The US Department of Homeland Security has finalized a rule replacing the H-1B visa random lottery with a weighted selection system. This new process, effective February 27, 2026, will prioritize higher-paid, higher-skilled foreign workers for the FY2027 cap season.

• USCIS replaces random H-1B lottery with weighted selection.
• New system prioritizes higher-wage levels for H-1B visa applicants.
• Rule effective Feb 27, 2026, for FY2027 H-1B cap season.
• Aims to curb abuse and protect American workers' wages.
• Higher wage levels (e.g., Level IV) receive increased selection odds.
• Significant impact on Indian professionals and IT companies.

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