The United States has officially completed the H-1B visa selection process for fiscal year 2027 after reaching the annual cap of 85,000 beneficiaries, including those under the advanced degree exemption.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that enough electronic registrations were received during the initial application window to fill the H-1B cap. All selected applicants have been notified and are now eligible to proceed with filing their H-1B cap-subject petitions.
USCIS stated that it has “received enough electronic registrations for unique beneficiaries during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year 2027 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).” Employers with selected registrations can now move forward with submitting petitions for the chosen beneficiaries.
Filing window opens April 1, 2026
Petition filing for FY 2027 H-1B visas will begin on April 1, 2026. Only employers whose registrations have been selected are permitted to file petitions, and submissions must be completed within the timeframe mentioned in the selection notice, which will remain open for at least 90 days.
Updated forms and documentation rules
USCIS has mandated the use of the revised Form I-129 (edition dated February 27, 2026) for all submissions starting April 1. Applicants must also include supporting documents such as a valid passport or travel document used during registration, along with proof of job role, wage level, and other eligibility details.
Authorities emphasized that selection in the lottery does not guarantee visa approval. Each petition will still undergo detailed review to ensure compliance with all eligibility and documentation requirements.
Additional compliance requirement
A new rule also requires certain H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025, to include an additional $100,000 payment as part of eligibility, as per a presidential proclamation.
USCIS reiterated that while the lottery determines who can apply, final approval depends on full compliance with immigration regulations during the adjudication process.
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