H-1B visa registrations for fiscal year 2027 have seen a sharp decline, with filings estimated to be down by 30 to 50 percent compared to last year. The drop comes as the application window closes, reflecting a noticeable shift in employer behavior under revised rules.
The decline has particularly impacted large IT outsourcing firms and start-ups. However, immigration experts believe the changes are also reshaping the hiring landscape, potentially creating new opportunities for smaller and mid-sized employers.
A more cautious approach from companies appears to be a key factor behind the reduced numbers. Reports suggest that many employers held back due to increased visa fees and uncertainty surrounding modifications to the lottery system. Shilpa Malik noted that filings in her experience dropped by nearly 50 percent, while other experts estimate the decline at around 30 percent.
The revised system is expected to benefit a different group of applicants. Master’s degree holders in the United States are likely to gain the most, along with mid-sized companies willing to offer higher salaries for specialized roles. Smaller firms, which previously struggled to compete with bulk applications from large outsourcing companies, may now have a better chance. With a more level playing field, these employers feel they have a fair shot at securing skilled talent.
The registration window officially closed on March 19, and the selection process is set to begin soon. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services is expected to notify selected applicants by March 31, 2026, through their online accounts.
Each year, the United States issues 85,000 H-1B visas under its annual cap—65,000 for specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor’s degree, and an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants holding a master’s degree or higher from a US institution.
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