USCIS Tightens Rules, Raises Fees for 2027 H-1B Visa Season

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new compliance requirements, updated forms, and significantly increased fees for the 2027 H‑1B visa cap season.

Petitions for the 2027 season opened on 1 April 2026 and must be filed by 30 June. Selection in the registration process does not guarantee approval; employers must submit Form I‑129 and provide comprehensive supporting evidence. Key new requirements include proof of the beneficiary’s valid passport or travel document used during registration and documentation supporting the wage level chosen for the position. 

These changes shift the programme towards a beneficiary‑centred system, ensuring individuals are considered only once, even if multiple employers register them. The visa allocation now prioritises applicants based on skill and salary levels, using a four‑tier wage system. 

Level 1 covers entry‑level positions, while Level 4 applies to senior experts. This approach is designed to favour highly skilled professionals and align visa distribution with labour market needs.

Financially, the programme has become considerably more expensive for employers. Premium Processing fees rise from $2,805 to $2,965 from March 2026. 

A new one‑time petition fee of $100,000 per worker will take effect in September 2025, increasing the total cost of sponsoring an H‑1B employee from under $10,000 to over $100,000. Certain categories, including some foreign students, may qualify for exemptions.

Administrative changes also add complexity. USCIS will only accept the revised Form I‑129, dated 27 February 2026. The updated form requires detailed information on job duties, education, work experience, supervisory responsibilities, and worksite locations.