US Signals Intention To Rethink Job H-1B Lottery

The Department of Homeland Security and USCIS plan to revise the H-1B visa allocation process. A regulatory filing indicates a proposed rule change is under review. This review aims to replace the current lottery system with a weighted selection process. The new system will likely prioritize applicants based on specific criteria, potentially related to skills. The H-1B program allows skilled foreign workers to work in the US. The program reached its 2026 cap recently, and currently employs around 600,000 workers. Technology companies largely support the program to access specialized talent. However, the H-1B program faces criticism for potentially suppressing US wages and exploiting immigrant workers. The proposed rule change will be published in the Federal Register after the review is complete.