The United States will replace the H-1B visa lottery with a wage-based selection system from April 1, 2026, requiring employers to file a revised Form I-129. The move could significantly impact Indian professionals, who currently receive the majority of H-1B visas issued each year.
The United States has announced major changes to the H-1B visa selection system, shifting from the current lottery model to a wage-based process starting April 1, 2026. The new framework will require employers to submit detailed petitions using an updated Form I-129 when sponsoring foreign workers.
Under the revised system, candidates will be classified into four wage levels based on salary standards set by the US Department of Labor. Applicants linked to higher wage levels will receive more opportunities during the selection process. For example, a Level 4 candidate may receive four chances, while a Level 1 candidate may receive only one.
The change is expected to favor experienced professionals and higher paying roles. Indian professionals are likely to be the most affected group, as they currently receive about 70 percent of all H-1B visas issued annually.
The visa is typically granted for an initial three years and can be extended for another three years, after which applicants may pursue permanent residency pathways such as a Green Card.
[Source: India.com]
