The H-1B filing season for Fiscal Year 2027 (March 2026) marks one of the most significant reforms in the program’s history. The traditional random lottery has officially been replaced with a Wage-Weighted Selection System, shifting the focus toward higher-paid and more specialized professionals. This change is expected to reshape hiring strategies for U.S. employers and career planning for international workers.
Wage-Weighted Selection System Explained
Under the new system, registrations are no longer equal. Instead, applicants receive multiple chances based on their Department of Labor (DOL) wage level. Entry-level candidates (Level I) receive one entry, while mid-level (Level II) get two, senior professionals (Level III) get three, and expert-level roles (Level IV) receive four entries. According to DHS estimates, this increases selection odds from roughly 15% at Level I to over 60% at Level IV, encouraging employers to prioritize advanced skills and experience.
Increased Scrutiny of Job Roles and SOC Codes
USCIS now requires employers to submit accurate Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes during registration. Job descriptions must clearly align with the wage level selected. Any mismatch between duties, title, and wage level may trigger Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or outright denials for suspected system manipulation. Consistency between registration and petition filings is now critical.
Salary Offers Must Be Finalized Earlier
Previously, employers could finalize salary offers after lottery selection. That flexibility is gone. Companies must now determine wages before the March registration window opens. Many employers are raising salaries to reach Level II or III thresholds to improve selection odds. However, this introduces pay equity risks, as U.S. workers in similar roles must receive comparable compensation.
Higher Fees and Additional Compliance Burdens
The FY 2027 season also brings substantial cost increases. The electronic registration fee has jumped from $10 to $215 per applicant. Additionally, a controversial $100,000 statutory fee may apply to certain applicants outside the U.S. or those with immigration violations, though this policy remains under legal challenge. Enhanced social media screening is also causing longer visa processing times at U.S. consulates.
What This Means for Applicants and Employers
The shift to wage-based selection fundamentally favors experienced professionals and high-value roles while reducing chances for entry-level candidates. Employers must now adopt early workforce planning, accurate job classification, and competitive compensation strategies to remain compliant and successful.
Overall, the FY 2027 H-1B reforms represent a move toward a more skills-driven immigration model one that rewards expertise but demands greater preparation and compliance from all stakeholders.
