The FY 2027 H-1B registration period will open on March 4, 2026 and close at 12:00 p.m. (ET) on March 19, 2026. During this short window, U.S. employers must electronically register foreign national candidates they intend to sponsor for H-1B status through the system administered by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Because the H-1B program is subject to annual numerical limits, demand almost always exceeds supply. USCIS therefore conducts a lottery to determine which registrations may proceed to full petition filing. This year’s H-1B cycle introduces important changes that employers should understand before submitting registrations.
A Major Shift: Wage-Based H-1B Selection
Historically, the H-1B lottery was purely random. For FY 2027, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented a new wage-prioritized selection system. Under this approach, registrations associated with higher prevailing wage levels will receive preference over those tied to lower wage levels.
Wage levels are determined based on the job’s occupational classification and geographic work location. This means compensation planning now plays a meaningful role in selection odds. Employers offering higher market-aligned salaries may see improved chances of selection compared to lower-wage filings.
This change represents a significant departure from prior years and requires more strategic preparation.
Potential $100,000 Fee for Certain Consular H-1B Filings
Another development employers should be aware of is a potential additional $100,000 fee for certain H-1B petitions. This fee may apply where the beneficiary is outside the United States and the petition is approved for consular processing. Limited national interest exceptions may be available, but applicability depends on case-specific facts.
Employers should evaluate this issue early, especially when sponsoring candidates who will be applying for their visa abroad.
What Employers Should Be Doing Now
Given these changes, H-1B preparation should begin well before the registration window opens. Employers should review their workforce and upcoming hiring needs, confirm specialty occupation eligibility, evaluate prevailing wage levels, and identify whether any candidates may qualify for cap-exempt options or alternative visa strategies.
Because the registration period is short, advance planning is essential.
How JSingleton Law LLC Can Help
JSingleton Law LLC works with employers and professionals on H-1B case assessments, registration preparation, wage level analysis, and post-selection petition strategy. We also advise on alternative immigration options where appropriate.
If you are considering sponsoring an H-1B candidate for FY 2027 or would like to discuss how these changes may affect your organization, we invite you to contact our office for a consultation.
