The United States (US) has announced major changes to its work visa policy, ending the lottery system and introducing a weighted selection approach for H-1B visas, prioritising skills under the new H-1B visa policy.
According to foreign media reports, the long-running random lottery system will be replaced with a selection process that favours higher-paid and more highly skilled foreign professionals.
The US Department of Homeland Security said the new system will officially take effect from February 27, 2026, with full implementation beginning in fiscal year 2027.
Under the revised framework, around 85,000 H-1B visas will be issued annually through a weighted selection process instead of random computer-generated draws.
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Officials explained that the weighted system will assign preference to applicants earning higher salaries and possessing specialised professional skills and advanced qualifications.
This change is expected to make it significantly harder for young graduates and entry-level professionals to secure US work visas under the new rules.
Matthew Tragesser, spokesperson for US Citizenship and Immigration Services, said the lottery system had been repeatedly misused by some employers.
He stated that several companies were hiring foreign workers at lower wages, which negatively impacted employment opportunities and wages for American workers.
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The Trump administration said the move aligns with broader immigration reforms aimed at protecting domestic labour and encouraging high-value talent.
Officials also confirmed that companies sponsoring H-1B workers will face an additional charge of $100,000 per visa under proposed measures.
Supporters of the change argue the policy will attract highly skilled professionals who can contribute more effectively to the US economy.
However, critics warn the shift could reduce opportunities for young professionals and international graduates seeking early career exposure in the United States.
Data from foreign media shows Amazon received the highest number of H-1B visas this year among US employers.
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Other major recipients include Tata Consultancy Services, Microsoft, Apple, and Google, reflecting heavy demand in the technology sector.
California continues to host the largest concentration of H-1B visa holders due to its strong technology and innovation ecosystem.
Currently, the annual cap for H-1B visas stands at 65,000, with an additional 20,000 allocated for applicants holding US master’s degrees.
Under the new H-1B visa policy, these caps will remain, but selection will depend on salary levels rather than chance.
