H-1B Visa Selection Process For FY 2027 Completed

USCIS Completes H-1B Lottery Selection

The USCIS department has completed its selection process for the H-1B lottery system. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has completed the selection process for 85,000 H-1B visas for the fiscal year 2027. The agency used a lottery system to meet the annual quota.

USCIS confirmed that it conducted lotteries for both categories:

  • Regular quota
  • Advanced degree exemption

The agency has shared the list of selected beneficiaries with their employers. Employers can now move forward with the visa application process.

Application Timeline and Requirements

  • The selected applicants need to finish the H-1B petition process during the designated period.
  • Filing starts from April 1 The deadline is 90 days from the start date
  • The USCIS agency mandates all applicants to present the newly established Form I-129. The H-1B visa petition process requires this form for mandatory submission.

Role of H-1B Visas in U.S. Hiring

American employers use H-1B visas to hire foreign workers who possess specialized expertise in various industries. The common sectors that utilize H-1B visas include:

  • Software and technology companies
  • Healthcare institutions such as hospitals

Indian nationals represent the most preferred candidates for selection in technical and medical occupations.

The New Policy Focuses on Skills and Salary Determination

The U.S. government has introduced a policy that changes how candidates receive selection priority. The system now considers:

  • Salary level
  • Specialized skills

The process assigns selection priority to candidates who hold high-paying positions and possess specialized knowledge.

Government Objective Behind the Policy

Government Objective Behind the Policy

The policy aims to influence hiring practices in the United States.

  • Encourage companies to hire local workers for most roles
  • Use H-1B visas only when required for specialized talent
  • Reduce misuse of the visa program

This approach seeks to balance the demand for global talent with domestic employment priorities.