1B random lottery selection, priority will now be given to those earning higher wages
The US DHS is overhauling the H-1B visa process by replacing the random lottery with a weighted system that prioritizes higher-wage, more skilled applicants, effective February 27, 2026. This reform, along with a $100,000 entry fee and higher wage requirements, aims to protect American jobs but is expected to increase offshoring and limit opportunities for entry-level applicants, including new graduates. The change will tilt odds in favor of mid- to senior-level workers and could significantly impact large beneficiaries from India, which currently accounts for a large share of approvals.
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