US H-1B Visa Lottery Replaced with Wage-Based System

The Trump administration has replaced the H-1B visa random lottery with a wage-based selection system, effective for the FY 2027 cap season. This change prioritizes higher-paid, skilled workers and is expected to significantly impact Indian professionals who form the majority of H-1B applicants. Critics argue it will disadvantage entry-level workers.

• H-1B random lottery replaced by wage-based selection process.
• New rule favors higher-paid, higher-skilled foreign workers.
• Effective February 27, 2026, for FY 2027 H-1B cap season.
• Indians, major H-1B beneficiaries, expected to be most affected.
• Rule aims to protect American workers' wages and jobs.
• Changes include additional fees and stricter social media vetting.

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