H-1B Lottery Registration Opens March 4, 2026 – What Employers Need to Know
The fiscal year (FY) 2027 H-1B cap lottery registration window will open on March 4 and run through March 19, 2026. A total of 85,000 slots are available annually, including 20,000 reserved for foreign nationals with a U.S. master’s or higher degree. Because demand exceeds supply, USCIS conducts a lottery each year to determine which candidates may apply for an H-1B visa.
New Weighted Selection Process
This year’s lottery will operate under a new regulatory framework that gives candidates multiple entries into the lottery based on the wage level that corresponds with their position. The wage level is determined based on the U.S. Department of Labor’s tier structure – candidates offered a Level 4 wage receive four entries into the lottery, followed by three entries for Level 3, two for Level 2, and one for entry-level candidates. In previous lottery seasons, each beneficiary received only one entry.
The Lottery Entry Process
Under the existing lottery process, employers must utilize a USCIS account online to submit basic biographic information for each beneficiary registrant, including whether the registrant holds a U.S. Master’s or higher degree. In addition to wage details and travel document information, the new system also requires employers to select the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) for the position code and area of intended employment at the time of registration.
Candidates Selected for H-1B Visa Petition Opportunity
USCIS typically notifies selected registrants by the end of March. Selected employers are given a limited filing window (typically 90 days) to submit a complete H-1B petition, and employment for approved petitions typically begins October 1.
Practical Steps Employers Should Take Now
Employers should review their current workforce to identify employees who may require H-1B sponsorship. This includes, but is not limited to, recent graduates in F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT, F-1 students working in Curricular Practical Training (CPT), employees in Trade NAFTA/USMCA (TN) status, and employees nearing the maximum time limits on another status.
For beneficiaries who must obtain an H-1B visa abroad or are ineligible to change status in the U.S., a new $100,000 statutory fee may apply. This fee should not typically apply if USCIS approves a valid change of status request. Employers should discuss whether the fee may apply to a specific case with counsel.
In light of the new weighted selection framework and additional registration requirements, early preparation will be more important than ever for FY 2027 H-1B cap filings. Employers should proactively assess sponsorship needs, confirm wage levels and job descriptions, and coordinate with immigration counsel in advance of the March 4 opening to minimize risk and maximize selection opportunities. Careful planning now will help ensure timely and compliant filings should a registration be selected and position your organization to navigate this evolving regulatory landscape.
If you have employees who may need H-1B sponsorship for FY 2027, now is the time to plan. The H-1B lottery registration window opens March 4 and closes March 19, 2026, and this year’s new weighted selection process makes early preparation more important than ever.
To discuss potential candidates and next steps, contact our Immigration team so we can help you prepare and submit timely, compliant registrations.
Authored By: Amie Schoeppel Wilcox and Mark K. Cameron