Overview
- USCIS has replaced the random H-1B lottery with a wage-weighted selection tied to Labor Department wage levels, taking effect February 27, 2026 for the FY 2027 season.
- A $100,000 employer fee now applies to most new H-1B petitions for workers outside the U.S., with students shifting from F‑1 to H‑1B inside the country exempt.
- The State Department’s online presence review now covers all H‑1B applicants and H‑4 dependents, prompting interview delays and rescheduling, notably in India.
- CBP now collects facial biometrics from all non‑citizens at entry and exit across air, land, and sea ports, ending prior exemptions for certain ages and categories.
- Officials paused reviews for applicants from 19 flagged countries and will fully restrict entry for nationals of 12 named countries beginning January 1, 2026.