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When are the key dates for the FY2027 H1B registration and petition filing period that I should plan around?

12 Oct 2026 · Answered by Deepak Kumar · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

FY2027 H1B registration ran from March 4 to 19, 2026, and USCIS confirmed by March 31, 2026 that enough registrations were received for the 85,000 cap. Selected beneficiaries could file petitions from April 1 to June 30, 2026, and employment cannot start before October 1, 2026.

Deepak Kumar
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The FY2027 H1B registration ran from March 4 to 19, 2026. Selected beneficiaries then had a petition filing window from April 1 to June 30, 2026.

Key Dates

EventDate
Registration periodMarch 4 to 19, 2026
USCIS cap confirmationBy March 31, 2026
Petition filing for selected beneficiariesApril 1 to June 30, 2026
Earliest employment startOctober 1, 2026

What to Remember

  • The cap is 85,000, made up of 65,000 regular and 20,000 master's exemption slots.
  • A second lottery was possible if the cap was not met by June 30, 2026.
  • A new Form I-129 (edition 02/27/26) is mandatory for all FY2027 cap petitions.

My Advice

Mark these dates with your employer and keep your documents ready. Deadlines are strict, so confirm them on the official USCIS page.

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