H-1B Developments: FY 2027 Cap Registration & “Project Firewall” Enforcement Initiative
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
What Was Announced?
USCIS announced that the FY 2027 H-1B electronic registration period will open March 4 -19, 2026. At the same time, the Department of Labor launched “Project Firewall,” an enforcement initiative targeting H-1B compliance violations.
Together, these developments signal heightened scrutiny in both allocation and enforcement of the H-1B program.
What Applicants and Employers Should Know?
Regarding the FY 2027 Cap:
Registration window: March 4–19, 2026.
$215 registration fee per beneficiary.
Weighted selection process prioritizing higher wage levels.
Regarding Project Firewall:
DOL Wage & Hour Division will increase investigations.
Focus areas include wage compliance, displacement, and retaliation.
Greater whistleblower protections.
Who Is Affected?
Employers filing cap-subject H-1B petitions.
H-1B dependent employers.
Workers in specialty occupation roles.
Who Is Not Affected?
Individuals already counted against the H-1B cap (unless compliance violations arise).
Non-H-1B visa holders.
What Does “Project Firewall” Mean in Practice?
It signals:
Increased site visits.
Greater documentation review.
More audits of LCAs and payroll records.
Heightened enforcement against misrepresentation.
What Applicants and Employers Should Do Now
Conduct internal wage compliance audits.
Ensure public access files are complete.
Align job descriptions with actual duties.
Plan filings strategically before registration closes.
Key Takeaway
The H-1B landscape is becoming both more competitive and more enforcement-driven. Compliance discipline is essential.
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