An in-depth look at the FY2027 H-1B lottery data, employer strategies, and the impact of the wage-weighted selection process.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery brought significant shifts in employer filing strategies, driven by the wage-weighted selection process and evolving USCIS regulations. This comprehensive guide analyzes the latest DOL data, breaking down total registrations, selection odds by wage level, and identifying the top H-1B filing companies to provide strategic insights for both employers and prospective employees in 2026.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | ↑ 10% |
| Level 4 Odds | ~62% | ↑ 16% |
| Amazon H-1B Filings | 55,150 | ↑ 8% |
| Microsoft H-1B Filings | 34,626 | ↑ 5% |
| Infosys H-1B Filings | 32,840 | ↓ 10% |
Our analysis of the FY2027 H-1B lottery data reveals a nuanced trend: while overall registrations decreased, the proportion of Level 3 and Level 4 wage petitions selected significantly increased. This indicates that employers are strategically prioritizing highly compensated, specialized roles, rather than simply increasing the volume of filings. This shift suggests a more targeted approach to H-1B sponsorship, focusing on critical talent acquisition over broad-based lottery participation.
Focus your job search on roles that genuinely command Level 3 or Level 4 wages. Articulate your advanced skills and experience clearly in your applications. Companies investing in higher wage levels are demonstrating a stronger commitment to successful H-1B sponsorship under the current system.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery, which closed on March 19, 2026, saw a notable decrease in total registrations to approximately 343,981, a 27% drop from FY2026. Despite this, the overall selection odds improved to 35.3%. This improvement is largely attributed to the wage-weighted lottery system, which significantly boosts the chances for petitions filed at higher wage levels. Specifically, Level 4 odds reached ~62%, while Level 1 odds remained low at ~15%.
Employer filing trends reflect this strategic shift. Tech giants like Amazon (55,150 filings), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) continue to dominate, often filing for high-skilled roles. Conversely, some IT consulting firms, historically known for high volume at lower wage levels, saw a decrease in filings. The new Form I-129, mandatory since April 2026, also plays a role in standardizing data collection, impacting how employers approach their filings. Understanding these trends is crucial for both employers optimizing their H-1B strategy and candidates seeking sponsorship.
**Amazon:** With 55,150 H-1B filings, Amazon consistently files for a wide range of roles, from Software Development Engineers to Cloud Architects. Their strategy often involves a significant number of Level 3 and Level 4 petitions, reflecting their demand for experienced talent and aligning with the wage-weighted lottery's preferences.
**Microsoft:** Filing 34,626 H-1B petitions, Microsoft demonstrates a strong commitment to global talent. Their filings for roles like Data & Applied Scientists and Product Managers frequently fall into higher wage levels, indicating a strategic focus on securing highly skilled professionals through the lottery.
**Infosys:** As a major IT services provider, Infosys filed 32,840 H-1B petitions. While still a high volume, their filings have shown a slight decrease in overall numbers compared to previous years, potentially adjusting their strategy in response to the wage-weighted lottery and increased scrutiny on Level 1 positions.
Overall selection odds improved to 35.3% in FY2027, up from FY2026, despite fewer total registrations. This is largely due to the wage-weighted system favoring higher-skilled positions, with Level 4 odds at ~62%.
Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), Google (33,416), Infosys (32,840), and Tata (28,950) were among the top H-1B filing companies for FY2027, continuing their dominance in talent acquisition.
Employers are increasingly prioritizing petitions for Level 3 and Level 4 wage roles, as these have significantly higher selection odds. This shifts focus from sheer volume to securing highly skilled, specialized talent. Get Wisa data supports this trend.
The new Form I-129, mandatory since April 2026, standardizes data collection and may require adjustments to internal filing processes. Employers must ensure compliance with the updated form for all H-1B petitions.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Overall selection odds improved to 35.3% in FY2027, up from FY2026, despite fewer total registrations. This is largely due to the wage-weighted system favoring higher-skilled positions, with Level 4 odds at ~62%.
Amazon (55,150), Microsoft (34,626), Google (33,416), Infosys (32,840), and Tata (28,950) were among the top H-1B filing companies for FY2027, continuing their dominance in talent acquisition.
Employers are increasingly prioritizing petitions for Level 3 and Level 4 wage roles, as these have significantly higher selection odds. This shifts focus from sheer volume to securing highly skilled, specialized talent. Get Wisa data supports this trend.
The new Form I-129, mandatory since April 2026, standardizes data collection and may require adjustments to internal filing processes. Employers must ensure compliance with the updated form for all H-1B petitions.