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New H-1B visa rules in the U.S. starting in 2026: what will change and how to prepare

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Learn how H-1B visa rules in the U.S. will change starting in 2026: lottery abolition, priority for high-paid specialists, new fees, and stricter requirements.

In February 2026, significant changes will come into force in the H-1B visa process for highly skilled professionals. U.S. authorities are abolishing the random lottery system and introducing a weighted selection model focused on qualifications and salary levels. In this article, we take a detailed look at what exactly will change, what requirements will apply to employers and applicants, and how to prepare for the new rules.

Key changes to the H-1B rules

Starting February 27, 2026, the H-1B visa allocation system will be completely restructured. The main reform is the elimination of the random lottery in favor of a selection process based on professional merit and wage levels. Priority will be given to specialists whose skills and compensation meet higher standards.

Main changes include:

Abolition of the lottery

Previously, H-1B visas were distributed randomly among all registered applications. Under the new system, selection will be based on professional qualifications and salary levels.

Priority-based selection

Candidates with higher qualifications and higher salaries will have a greater chance of receiving an H-1B visa.

Stricter screening

U.S. authorities are strengthening oversight of both employers and applicants. This includes social media profile analysis and additional verification mechanisms.

Significant increase in costs

According to a presidential proclamation, employers will be required to pay an additional fee of $100,000 for each new H-1B petition.

Quota remains unchanged

Annual limits stay the same: 65,000 visas per year, plus 20,000 additional visas for holders of U.S. master’s and doctoral degrees.

Required documents for the H-1B visa

To apply for an H-1B visa, the employer and candidate must provide:

A job offer from a U.S. employer
Proof of qualifications (degrees, certificates)
Documents confirming the offered salary level
Completed Form I-129
Employer company documentation
Candidate’s résumé (CV)
Police clearance (no criminal record)
Certified translations of documents, if required

Timelines and fees

Effective date of changes: February 27, 2026
Application period: Spring 2026 for Fiscal Year 2027
Additional fee: $100,000 per new H-1B petition
Government filing fees: from $460 to $2,500, depending on the category
Processing time: 3–6 months, with an option for Premium Processing

Advantages of the new system

Increased transparency and fairness in the selection process
Incentives for employers to hire truly highly qualified professionals
Protection of wage levels for U.S. workers
Strengthening the competitiveness of the U.S. labor market

Conclusion

The H-1B visa reform starting in 2026 is an attempt to make the program more transparent, efficient, and focused on genuinely valuable specialists. Both applicants and employers should begin preparing now by strengthening documentation and revising hiring strategies.

Contact Visa Dan — we will help you assess your chances, prepare your documents, and guide you through the entire H-1B application process under the new rules.

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Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
Complete transparency and support at every stage.
A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!