How does USCIS select H1B registrations for FY2027 if I want to work in the USA?
12 Oct 2026 · Answered by Swathi Boppana · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Since February 27, 2026, USCIS has selected H1B registrations using a wage-weighted system that favours higher salary levels, rather than pure chance. The FY2027 cap is 85,000, made up of 65,000 regular and 20,000 master's exemption slots. A second round was possible if the cap was not met.
Since February 27, 2026, USCIS selects registrations using a wage-weighted system that favours higher salary levels rather than pure chance. This changes how you should think about your odds.
FY2027 Selection at a Glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Selection method | Wage-weighted, favouring higher salary levels (since February 27, 2026) |
| Cap | 85,000 (65,000 regular plus 20,000 master's exemption) |
| Registration cap check | USCIS confirmed by March 31, 2026 that enough registrations were received |
| Second lottery | Was possible if the cap was not met by June 30, 2026 |
Other Changes to Know
- A new Form I-129 (edition 02/27/26) is required for FY2027 cap petitions, so confirm the current edition on the USCIS website.
- A new USD 100,000 (approx INR 96.83 L) fee applies to certain H1B petitions under a Presidential Proclamation, which adds a major cost for sponsoring employers.
My Advice
Talk to your prospective employer early about the wage level they plan to offer, since it can affect your selection chances. Rules change often, so check the USCIS page for the latest.
Not sure which documents your US visa needs?
Interview prep, funds proof and timelines. Get a checklist for your case.
4.7/5 Google
🎓 25K+ admits
Get My Visa ChecklistRelated topics
More Student visa questions
- Is a loan sanction letter from the government regulated Indian Bank accepted for a UK student visa application?
- How much bank balance is needed for an Italy student visa after failing math in 12th grade?
- Can I call my husband on a dependent visa after I go on a student visa for my masters abroad in UK/Ireland?
- Is it possible for my son, who is currently in twelfth grade, to study in New Zealand next year for a Diploma?
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- Which countries have less strict or different financial requirements compared to New Zealand, especially regarding funding duration?
- Can other family members act as financial sponsors if my father’s income is insufficient in Germany?
- Is it necessary to include a cover letter explaining my financial arrangement, which combines a loan and personal savings, for my German student visa application?
More USA questions
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- How much extra should I keep aside for unexpected costs during my MS in the USA?
- By when do I need to submit my application for most UG and PG courses at UCLA?
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?
🎓 Not sure what your US visa needs? Get My Checklist