This week, the biggest headline from the Department of Homeland Security is a major shake-up in how the U.S. handles high-skilled work visas. Starting now, DHS is putting forward a proposed rule to change the H-1B visa lottery from a random system to a wage-based selection process. According to details released by DHS, future H-1B registrations will be weighted depending on Department of Labor wage levels—giving higher odds to more highly paid, experienced roles while reducing chances for entry-level positions. For example, an application at the highest wage level might get four entries in the lottery pool, compared to just one for entry-level jobs. This could dramatically reshape the hiring landscape, especially for international graduates and tech companies, and the rule is now open for public comment.

In related developments, DHS has implemented a number of immediate policy changes this year. Through Executive Order 14159, the administration revoked previous limits on where immigration enforcement actions can take place—meaning enforcement at all workplace locations is now possible. New screening measures for immigration applications, including expanded social media checks, have also been enacted, which could mean longer wait times and stricter documentation requirements.

There’s also a significant update for refugees and asylees: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has temporarily halted processing green card applications for these groups, as directed by the administration under Executive Order 14161. The stated aim is to “better identify fraud, public safety, or national security concerns,” with officials placing a pause on certain applications for extra screening. This has left thousands of refugees and asylees—who have already passed rigorous overseas vetting—in a state of uncertainty, potentially affecting their employment and day-to-day stability. With USCIS funded largely by application fees, there are worries this might lead to financial shortfalls and staffing cuts.

For employers, other changes to work visa programs are now in effect. This year, H-1B and H-2 programs shifted to “beneficiary-centric” selection, reducing the ability to game the lottery by filing multiple registrations for the same person. New requirements are also in place for H-1B and H-2B petitions, including stricter compliance reviews and expanded site visits for third-party job placements. All petitions now require the updated Form I-129, with no grace period for older forms.

On the budget front, recent reconciliation legislation has brought fee increases for certain petitions, including a new asylum application fee effective since July, which directly affects both applicants and organizations assisting immigrants.

According to a USCIS spokesperson, “To better identify fraud, public safety, or national security concerns, USCIS is placing a temporary pause on finalizing certain Adjustment of Status applications pending the completion of additional screening and vetting.” Employers and universities should also note potential reforms under review, such as tightening cap exemption criteria and expanding monitoring for H-1B compliance, which could bring more paperwork and longer processing for those with a history of violations.

Looking ahead, the public can submit comments on the proposed H-1B rule through the Federal Register this fall. Experts say that if adopted, the policy could push organizations to offer higher wages but may limit opportunities for entry-level foreign workers. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are urging DHS to ensure that vulnerable populations like refugees don’t face indefinite delays.

For more details or to engage with these changes, visit DHS.gov. If you have feedback on the H-1B proposed rule, be sure to submit your comments during the open period. That’s it for this week’s DHS roundup. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe....