The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it has received enough electronic registrations to meet the fiscal year 2027 numerical allocation for the H-1B visa, including the advanced degree exemption, commonly known as the master’s cap.
In a statement released March 31, USCIS said it selected enough unique beneficiaries with properly submitted registrations to fill the annual cap. Prospective petitioners with selected beneficiaries have been notified and are now eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions. Registrants can check their status through their online accounts.
USCIS said petitions for FY 2027 may be filed beginning April 1, 2026, provided they are submitted for a selected beneficiary and based on a valid registration. Only petitioners whose beneficiaries were chosen in the selection process will be permitted to file cap-subject petitions.
The agency noted that petitions must be filed at the appropriate location or online and within the filing period listed on the selection notice, which will be at least 90 days. Petitioners are also required to include a copy of the selection notice with their submission.
USCIS further indicated that a new edition of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, dated February 27, 2026, must be used for all FY 2027 H-1B cap-subject filings. Beginning April 1, only this version of the form will be accepted.
The agency emphasized that petitions must contain the same identifying and job-related information submitted during registration. Petitioners must also provide evidence of the beneficiary’s valid passport or travel document used at the time of registration, along with documentation supporting the wage level selected.
USCIS additionally reminded applicants that a presidential proclamation restricting entry of certain nonimmigrant workers requires some H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025, to include an additional US$100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility.
The agency stressed that selection in the registration process only allows petitioners to file an H-1B petition and does not guarantee approval, noting that applicants must still submit supporting evidence and demonstrate eligibility under program requirements.
