H-1B Visa 2027: Registration Dates, Fees, Eligibility & New Selection Rules

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has opened registration for the fiscal year 2027 H-1B visa programme. 

The registration period began on 4 March 2026 and will close at noon Eastern Time on 19 March. Employers seeking to sponsor foreign professionals must complete submissions through the USCIS online portal.

The H-1B visa programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in specialised fields. Each year, 85,000 visas are available under the statutory cap. Of these, 65,000 are allocated to applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, while 20,000 are reserved for individuals who hold advanced degrees from US universities.

Demand for these visas typically exceeds the annual cap. In previous years, applications were selected through a lottery. For the fiscal year 2027 cycle, USCIS has introduced a weighted selection process. This system gives priority to applicants with higher qualifications and higher salaries.

USCIS stated that the weighted system will apply if registrations exceed the annual limit. The change aims to favour candidates expected to work in higher-skilled and better-paid positions. As a result, the new process may alter the profile of successful applicants.

Participation costs have also increased. The registration fee remains USD 215 and must be paid by employers when they submit a candidate’s details. However, a new rule under Presidential Proclamation No. 10973 introduces an additional charge for certain petitioners.

Employers whose registrations are selected and who proceed to file a full H-1B petition may be required to pay an additional USD 100,000. The measure is intended to discourage speculative registrations and ensure that employers only submit applications when they intend to complete the hiring process.

USCIS plans to announce the results of the registration process by 31 March 2026. Notifications will be sent through the USCIS online accounts used during registration.

For many foreign professionals, the H-1B visa offers the opportunity to work in the United States and may also support a future application for permanent residency. The visa category permits “dual intent”, which allows holders to pursue permanent residence while working in the country.