The H-1B visa program is undergoing one of its most significant changes in decades. Beginning February 27, 2026, in time for the FY 2027 H-1B cap season, the traditional random lottery system will be replaced with a wage-weighted selection process. This new system prioritizes higher-skilled, higher-paid positions, marking a major shift in how H-1B visas are allocated.
This update has important implications for employers, foreign professionals, and future H-1B strategies.
How the New Wage-Weighted H-1B Selection Works
Under the new framework, H-1B registrations will no longer have an equal, random chance of selection. Instead, USCIS will prioritize registrations based on wage levels, favoring roles that offer higher salaries.
Key features include:
- Wage-Based Prioritization: Registrations will be ranked according to the offered wage level tied to the prevailing wage system.
- Weighted Selection: Higher wage levels will receive greater weight in the selection process, increasing the likelihood of being chosen.
- Prevailing Wage Categories: Registrations are expected to be grouped by wage levels (Level IV, III, II, I), with Level IV roles receiving the strongest priority.
This replaces the former system where all properly submitted registrations had an equal chance, regardless of salary or skill level.
Key Changes for the FY 2027 H-1B Cap Season
Effective Date: February 27, 2026
Applies To: H-1B cap-subject registrations only
Does NOT Apply To:
H-1B transfers
H-1B extensions
Amendments or cap-exempt petitions
This means current H-1B holders and employers filing transfers or extensions will not be impacted by the new selection model.
Why USCIS Is Making This Change
According to immigration policy experts and industry reports, the goals of the wage-weighted system include:
- Protecting U.S. workers by discouraging low-wage misuse of the H-1B program
- Reducing system abuse and multiple registrations
- Prioritizing highly skilled, specialized roles
- Aligning visa allocation with labor market needs
The change reflects a broader policy shift toward merit- and wage-based employment immigration.
What This Means for Employers
Employers may need to rethink their H-1B strategies:
- Competitive wage offers will play a larger role in selection success
- Entry-level or lower-wage positions may face reduced chances
- Workforce planning should start earlier, with salary benchmarking in mind
Companies relying heavily on H-1B talent should work closely with immigration counsel to structure offers strategically under the new system.
What This Means for Foreign Professionals
For foreign nationals, this change means:
- Higher salaries significantly improve selection odds
- Specialized experience and senior-level roles will be favored
- Career planning and employer selection will matter more than ever
Candidates in lower wage levels may want to explore alternative visa options or long-term immigration strategies.
Alternatives to Consider
Given the increased emphasis on wages and skill level, many professionals may benefit from exploring alternatives such as:
- EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability)
- EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
- O-1 visas for individuals with extraordinary ability
- L-1 visas for multinational employees
Final Thoughts
The removal of the random H-1B lottery and the introduction of a wage-weighted selection system marks a fundamental change in U.S. employment-based immigration. While the new system aims to increase fairness and protect U.S. workers, it also raises the bar for both employers and foreign professionals.
Planning early, understanding wage requirements, and exploring alternative pathways will be critical for success under the FY 2027 H-1B cap and beyond.