Everything you need to know about H-1B initial filings, from registration to petition approval in 2026.
The H-1B initial filing process for 2026 is complex, involving lottery registration, petition submission, and USCIS adjudication. Get Wisa provides a comprehensive, data-driven guide to help professionals and employers navigate every step successfully.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registration Deadline | March 19, 2026 | Closed |
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Selection Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 27% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | New Requirement |
| Verified Sponsors in Wisa Database | 45,000+ | Growing |
| Total H-1B Filing Records in Wisa | 323,617 | Comprehensive |
Our analysis of DOL data shows that the 27% decrease in FY2027 H-1B registrations, while significant, doesn't necessarily mean reduced opportunities. It could indicate a shift in registration strategies or a more focused applicant pool. Understanding the new Form I-129 is critical, as employers who adapt quickly will have an advantage in the competitive 2026 filing season.
Leverage Get Wisa's extensive database of 45,000+ verified sponsors. Before committing to a role or employer, research their historical H-1B filing success rates, average salaries, and common job titles. This data-driven approach is invaluable for navigating the complexities of the initial filing process.
The 2026 H-1B initial filing process is marked by a notable decrease in total registrations for the FY2027 lottery, with approximately 343,981 submissions. This resulted in overall selection odds of 35.3%. The mandatory implementation of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 adds another layer of complexity, requiring employers to adapt their filing procedures.
Navigating this landscape requires access to reliable data. Get Wisa's comprehensive database, containing over 323,617 H-1B filing records, empowers professionals and employers to make informed decisions. Understanding employer sponsorship patterns, wage data, and the impact of new regulations is key to a successful H-1B initial filing.
Here are examples of top H-1B filing companies, illustrating the scale of sponsorship and the importance of understanding their data:
Q: What was the total number of H-1B registrations for FY2027?
A: Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a 27% decrease from the previous year.
Q: When is the new Form I-129 mandatory for H-1B filings?
A: The new Form I-129 became mandatory for all H-1B filings starting April 2026, impacting initial petitions and amendments.
Q: What are the overall H-1B selection odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%. Odds vary significantly by wage level.
Q: How can I find reliable H-1B sponsors?
A: Get Wisa offers a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, providing insights into their filing history and success rates.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a 27% decrease from the previous year.
The new Form I-129 became mandatory for all H-1B filings starting April 2026, impacting initial petitions and amendments.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%. Odds vary significantly by wage level.
Get Wisa offers a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, providing insights into their filing history and success rates.