H‑1B Registrations Fall Sharply Amid US Policy Changes

H‑1B visa registrations for the 2027 fiscal year have fallen by 30 to 50 percent compared with the previous cycle, according to immigration lawyers.

The decline follows the introduction of a new wage‑based lottery by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Under the revised system, applicants whose employers offer higher salaries are given priority, increasing their chances of selection. The change is intended to direct visas towards highly skilled workers and companies that provide competitive compensation.

Large technology firms, financial institutions, and engineering companies are among the main beneficiaries. Their ability to offer higher wages improves their prospects of securing visas for international recruits. Smaller businesses, which often submit lower‑wage applications, face reduced chances, leading many to scale back filings.

Rising visa fees have also contributed to the overall reduction in registrations, discouraging speculative applications. Together, the policy shifts represent one of the most significant adjustments to US skilled worker immigration rules in recent years. Analysts note that these measures are likely to influence how companies plan their global hiring strategies.

For the Indian community, which has historically been a major participant in the H‑1B programme, the changes carry important implications. The new system favours established corporations over smaller consultancies and start‑ups, potentially limiting opportunities for entry‑level professionals and those in lower‑tier roles.