U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Tuesday that it has received a sufficient number of electronic registrations to reach the fiscal year 2027 H-1B numerical allocations. The selection process, which includes both the general cap and the advanced degree exemption for applicants with master’s degrees, is now complete. The agency has officially notified all prospective petitioners with selected beneficiaries of their eligibility to file a formal H-1B cap-subject petition.
Registrants can now verify their status by logging into their online USCIS accounts, where the selection results are displayed. The agency confirmed that only petitioners with registrations for selected beneficiaries are permitted to move forward with the filing process. This selection only grants the eligibility to file; petitioners must still provide comprehensive evidence to establish the beneficiary’s qualifications and the validity of the job offer to secure a final approval.
The formal filing window for FY 2027 petitions is scheduled to open on April 1, 2026. Employers will have a period of at least 90 days to submit their completed petitions, as dictated by the specific dates listed on their individual selection notices. USCIS noted that all filings must be submitted either online via the agency’s web portal or at the correct physical filing location, and must include a copy of the applicable selection notice to be considered valid.
Starting this year, strict administrative requirements are in place regarding the documentation used. USCIS will only accept the new 02/27/26 edition of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for all H-1B cap-subject filings beginning April 1. Furthermore, petitions must be supported by the same identifying information and position details provided during the initial registration, including evidence of the beneficiary’s valid passport and the basis for the selected wage level.
The agency also highlighted a significant financial requirement resulting from a recent Presidential Proclamation. Certain H-1B petitions filed at or after Sept. 21, 2025, must now be accompanied by an additional $100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility. Stakeholders are encouraged to visit the USCIS website for further details on this restriction and to ensure all filings comply with the updated Form I-129 instructions to avoid delays or rejections.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
