DHS finalizes H-1B lottery rule

The Department of Homeland Security finalized its proposal to amend the H-1B visa petition and registration process. The final rule implements a weighted selection process for the H-1B lottery — replacing the former random selection — by prioritizing H-1B visas for higher-paid workers. DHS reaffirms the limits on the number of permitted visas to 65,000 annually, with an additional 20,000 for those with a U.S. advanced degree. The American Hospital Association commented on the proposed rule, saying it would hinder hospitals from using the program to address health care worker shortages and hamper access to care. The AHA recommended DHS automatically assign the highest weight in the selection process to occupations under the medicine and health categories. The rule is effective Feb. 27. (AHA News article, 12/29/25)