The U.S. H‑1B work visa system just changed significantly. For the first time, USCIS will rewrite how cap‑subject H‑1B registrations are selected, shifting from a random lottery to a wage‑level weighted system.
This update directly affects the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 H‑1B season registration, selection, notification, and filing timelines.
Having advised employers and visa applicants through multiple cap seasons, we view this as one of the most important structural changes to the H-1B selection process in years. Prepare this year’s strategy early, because the mechanics and results will feel very different.
Action Steps You Can Take Today
- Start wage and SOC code analysis now, don’t wait until March.
- Set up or verify your USCIS organizational account.
- Plan H‑1B registrations before the March 4 opening.
- Check USCIS announcements regularly and mark key dates.
By taking these steps early, you position your petitions with the strongest possible chance of being selected in the FY2027 registration season.
Updates for the FY2027 season
On December 23, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a final rule replacing the purely random H‑1B lottery with a wage‑level weighted selection process. This rule takes effect on February 27, 2026, and will apply to the next H‑1B cap season, the FY2027 registration period.
Under the new rule:
- USCIS retains the statutory annual H-1B cap of 85,000 visas (65,000 regular + 20,000 advanced degree).
- Instead of each registration having equal odds, registrations are entered into the selection pool multiple times based on the wage level offered.
- Higher wage levels now attract more entries, increasing the chances of selection for high‑pay jobs.
- A $100,000 fee now applies to some H‑1B petitions. This applies when the beneficiary is outside the United States or the petition seeks consular processing.
How Does the Weighted Selection System Work?
USCIS will assign each registration a weighted entry count based on wage level under the Department of Labor’s prevailing wage tiers:
- Wage Level IV (Highest) – 4 entries
- Wage Level III – 3 entries
- Wage Level II – 2 entries
- Wage Level I (Entry Level) – 1 entry
The system still operates under a cap, but higher-wage registrations receive more opportunities in the selection pool. It fundamentally changes how selections are made. All employers must report the job’s SOC code, work location, and wage level at registration, and USCIS will check this again when the full petition arrives.
Critical Dates for FY2027 H‑1B Lottery Submissions
Here are the key milestones for the FY 2027 season:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| The weighted rule becomes effective | February 27, 2026 |
| H‑1B Electronic Registration Opens | March 4, 2026 (12:00 PM ET) |
| Registration Closes | March 19, 2026 (12:00 PM ET) |
| Selection Notifications Sent | By March 31, 2026 |
| Petition Filing Window Opens | April 1, 2026 |
| Petition Filing Window Closes | June 30, 2026 |
| Employment Start Date | October 1, 2026 |
Preparing for the FY2027 H‑1B Cap Season
The FY2027 selection process requires preparation that looks different from past years. Here’s what employers should focus on now:
- Finalize Job Details Early
- Evaluate Wage Level Strategy
- Prepare USCIS Online Accounts
- Monitor USCIS and DHS Announcements
- Gather Required Documentation
Secure Your FY2027 H‑1B Success with VisaPro Expert Guidance
VisaPro’s team of U.S. immigration experts guides employers and applicants through every step, from accurate wage-level reporting to timely registration and petition filing. Don’t leave your H‑1B outcome to chance. Contact VisaPro today and secure expert guidance for your FY2027 H‑1B strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.When does FY2027 H‑1B registration open and close?
The registration period opens March 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET and closes March 19, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. Employers must submit registrations online through a USCIS account.
2.What is the new H‑1B selection process for FY2027?
USCIS replaced the random lottery with a wage‑level weighted system. Registrations receive multiple entries based on the offered wage, giving higher‑paid roles better odds.
3.How many visas are available under the FY2027 cap?
The total H‑1B cap remains 85,000, with 65,000 for the regular cap and 20,000 for U.S. master’s degree holders. Selection still depends on registration and wage weighting.
4.How does the wage‑level weighting work?
Wage Level IV jobs get 4 entries, Level III 3 entries, Level II 2 entries, and Level I 1 entry in the selection pool. Accurate reporting of wages and SOC codes is critical.
5.What happens after registration is selected?
If selected, the employer can file a full H‑1B petition during the filing window, typically April 1 – June 30, 2026. USCIS reviews wage, duties, and compliance before approval.
6.Do entry‑level H‑1B applicants still have a chance?
Yes, Level I registrations remain eligible, but they have fewer entries in the pool. Applicants should ensure proper documentation and wage alignment to maximize selection odds.
7.What fee do employers pay for H‑1B registration?
Each registration requires a $215 fee paid online. The fee covers the electronic lottery registration and must be submitted before the registration window closes.
8.When will selected applicants be notified?
USCIS will notify employers of selections by March 31, 2026. Notifications appear in the USCIS online account tied to the employer’s organization.
9.When can H‑1B employment start for FY2027?
Approved H‑1B beneficiaries can begin work on October 1, 2026, the official start of FY2027. Employers cannot start employment before this date.
10.How should employers prepare for the FY2027 H‑1B season?
Finalize SOC codes, wage levels, and USCIS online accounts before March. In our experience, early preparation ensures accurate registration and reduces the risk of denial or delay.
