New Rules for H1-B Visa Applicants

H-1B Application Process Revamped

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has confirmed from April 1st 2026, the process of applying for the non-immigrant visa will be different.

A key change prospective H-1B visa applicants should be aware of is that the latest version of Form I-129 must be used, otherwise your application will automatically be rejected.

The new Form I-129 has been revised to include a number of new questions requiring detailed information and supporting documentation covering:

• Job role and responsibilities
• Field of study
• Existing qualifications

H1-B Applicants Must Meet New Requirements

The way H1-B visas are allocated is also being revamped. Prior to April 2026, the visas were allocated via a lottery system. However, the update now means US immigrant services will move towards an approach to ensure the country attracts the most skilled workers. This means applications that meet certain requirements will be weighted and stand more chance of being approved.

In particular, there will be an increase focus on the wage levels offered to H1-B holders. Those applying with in-demand skills and higher salaries will be given priority under Department of Labor plans to ensure domestic workers are not disadvantaged.

“The Trump Administration is committed to ensuring that American workers are not disadvantaged by unfair wage practices,” explained US Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer.

She added: “This proposed rule will help ensure that employers pay foreign workers wages that reflect the real market value of their labor, in addition to protecting the wages and job opportunities of American workers.”

Neither the DOL or the USCIS have yet officially confirmed the new salary requirements but it is expected the entry-level wage minimum would increase to the current minimum salary for a Skill Level II role.

H1-B Target for US Government and Immigration Reform

It is not the first time the H1-B has been seen as a key target for US immigration reform.

Last year, a $100,000 charge was introduced to apply in certain situation when employers sponsor overseas workers.

There has also been an increase the cost of processing an H1-B application in the past month which could further reduce the demand for skilled global staff.

Most H-1B visa applicants come from India and account for around 70 per cent of applications. The visa is also popular with workers travelling from China, Canada, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Korea.

In 2025, Amazon was the largest employer of H-1B visa holders followed by Tata, Microsoft, Meta, Apple and Google.

How Can IAS Help?

If you are planning to move to the US on a H1-B visa then reach out to IAS to discuss current requirements and potentially alternative US work visa options.

The experienced team at IAS are on hand to support you in applying for a US work visa, checking documentation, advising on compliance or helping with relocation.

Contact IAS today for advice on +1 844 290 6312 or use our live chat to keep up-to-date with the latest US immigration policies.