The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced significant changes to the H-1B visa program, effective February 2026, including a wage-based selection system that will replace the current random lottery. Additionally, a new surcharge of $100,000 will apply to certain new H-1B petitions filed from outside the U.S., while premium processing fees for H-1B and employment petitions will also increase starting March 1, 2026.
Key Details:
- New wage-based selection system for H-1B visas effective February 2026.
- $100,000 surcharge for new cap-subject H-1B petitions filed from abroad.
- FY2027 H-1B registration window expected to open in March 2026.
- Increased premium processing fees for H-1B and employment petitions effective March 1, 2026.
- Enhanced vetting by U.S. consulates contributing to appointment backlogs.
Legislative proposals, including the PAUSE Act, are currently under consideration in Congress to restrict the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, though no changes have been enacted yet. The employment-based Green Card process will also see adjustments in premium processing fees and ongoing scrutiny in background checks, which may affect processing times.
These developments indicate a trend towards higher costs and stricter compliance for high-skilled immigration, impacting professionals, employers, and international students as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.
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Source: Corevo IT