Overview
- The Department of Homeland Security finalized a rule that replaces the random H-1B lottery with a weighted process favoring higher-paid and higher-skilled applicants, effective February 27, 2026 for the FY 2027 cap season.
- Beginning December 15, the State Department expanded online presence and social-media reviews to all H-1B and H-4 applicants worldwide, and embassies advised applicants to apply early and expect additional processing time.
- U.S. consulates, particularly in India, have pushed many December H-1B and H-4 interview appointments into March–June 2026 and beyond, leaving hundreds of workers temporarily stranded after traveling for renewals.
- Major technology employers have warned staff to avoid international travel if a new visa stamp is required, citing mounting cancellations and delays under the expanded screening.
- A $100,000 per-visa fee imposed by presidential proclamation is in effect and was upheld by a federal judge this week, even as broader industry legal challenges proceed.