The FY 2027 H-1B cap season has reached a key milestone, as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has completed the initial registration selection process. Employers and prospective beneficiaries who participated in this year’s electronic registration process can now review their selection status through their USCIS online accounts.
Overview of the H-1B Registration Process
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Due to high demand, USCIS conducts a lottery system to select eligible registrations under the annual cap, which includes:
- 65,000 regular cap slots
- 20,000 master’s cap slots (advanced degree exemption)
For FY 2027, USCIS continues to use the electronic pre-registration system, requiring employers to submit basic beneficiary information before filing a full petition.
Understanding Registration Statuses
- Selected – Eligible to file an H-1B petition during the filing window
- Submitted – Not selected in the first round, but remains eligible for future rounds
- Not Selected – Not chosen after all lottery rounds
H-1B Filing Dates for Selected Registrations
- Start date: April 1, 2026
- End date: June 30, 2026
USCIS typically provides a 90-day filing window. The exact deadline will be listed in the selection notice.
Important Instructions for F-1 Students (OPT & STEM OPT)
If you are currently on F-1 status working under OPT or STEM OPT and your H-1B registration has been selected:
- Cap-cap extension: Available if OPT expires before October 1, 2026, provided H-1B is timely filed
- Avoid travel: Traveling after filing a COS request may result in abandonment
- Maintain status: Follow OPT/STEM rules and keep SEVIS updated
- COS vs. consular: COS allows automatic transition on October 1, 2026
Instructions for Change of Status (COS) – Other Non-immigrant Categories
If the beneficiary is in the U.S. in another valid non-immigrant status (H-4, L-1/L-2, TN, O-1, etc.):
- Maintain valid status at the time of filing
- File within the USCIS deadline and before current status expiry
- Avoid travel while COS is pending, as it may result in abandonment
- File dependent applications (Form I-539) if applicable
- COS becomes effective on October 1, 2026, upon approval
Instructions for Beneficiaries Outside the United States
If the selected beneficiary is currently outside the U.S., the H-1B petition must be filed under Consular Processing (CP):
- File the petition with USCIS within the filing window
- Apply for visa stamping upon approval
- Complete Form DS-160 and attend a visa interview
- Enter the U.S. up to 10 days before October 1, 2026
- Status becomes active on October 1, 2026
Additional Fee Consideration for Certain Consular Cases
Employers should note that a $100,000 fee requirement remains in effect for certain H-1B filings. It applies to:
- New, first-time H-1B petitions
- Cases where the beneficiary is outside the U.S.
- Filings made on or after September 21, 2025
This fee is based on specific regulatory or policy provisions and does not apply to:
- Change of Status (COS) cases within the U.S.
- Extensions, amendments, or transfers for existing H-1B workers
Important:
Due to the complexity and limited applicability of this requirement, employers should:
- Assess whether the fee applies to their case
- Consult with immigration counsel before filing
- Ensure correct fee submission to avoid rejection
What “Selection Process Completed” Means
The announcement confirms that USCIS has completed the initial lottery and notified selected registrants. Employers with selected registrations are now eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions within the designated filing window.
Registrations that were not selected will remain in “Submitted” status and may be considered in additional lottery rounds, if conducted.
Important Considerations
- Selection does not guarantee approval
- USCIS reviews eligibility and supporting documentation
- Mismatches between registration and petition may lead to denial
- Timely and accurate filing is critical
Possibility of Second Lottery
USCIS may conduct additional lottery rounds if the cap is not met. Employers and beneficiaries should continue monitoring updates.
Conclusion
With the FY 2027 initial selection complete, employers and beneficiaries in the U.S. and abroad should plan their next steps carefully. Understanding filing timelines, status implications, and applicable fee requirements can help ensure a smooth transition to H-1B status.
