DHS finalized a rule on December 29, 2025, effective February 27, 2026, replacing the random H-1B cap lottery with a wage weighted process for the FY2027 cap season. Registrations at DOL wage Level IV get four entries, Level III three, Level II two and Level I one, favoring higher paid roles.
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H-1B cap lottery shifts to wage weighted selection starting February 27, 2026
Why this matters for founders
To improve a candidate's odds in the March 2026 registration, benchmark the offered salary against the higher OEWS wage levels rather than the prevailing minimum.
Source: Federal Register
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