The results of the H-1B visa program lottery for fiscal year 2027 have started being released, with immigration attorneys noting that not all results have been made public yet. Employers will be required to submit petitions for their chosen candidates after April 1.
For the first time, the USCIS has implemented a wage-based lottery instead of a random selection process for H-1B applications. Selected candidates will receive a notice in their myUSCIS accounts, but they will not be able to check their selection status unless informed by their employer or attorney.
Those selected can begin filing on April 1, 2026, and must use the new version of the I-129 form, which requests information regarding education, experience, skills, and level of supervision required for the position.
Selections are currently being released and are expected to continue through the following week. The filing period commences on April 1, 2026, and it is essential to utilize the updated I-129 form.
For those who are not selected, it is recommended to explore options for O-1 visas or employer-sponsored green card pathways. Additionally, employers can investigate any company's H-1B salary submissions and sponsorship history at greencardclock.com/lca-explorer.
The USCIS has not yet disclosed the total number of registrations or the count of selected candidates, and a second lottery could occur this year if many employers refrain from filing petitions for selected candidates who are outside the US.
The revised Form I-129 now requests that employers furnish comprehensive details regarding the minimum qualifications for the position, which are utilized to establish the wage level on the Labor Condition Application (LCA).
