H-1B count as of November 2011

As of November 14, 2011, all 20,000 H-1B Masters Exempt H-1B visas have been taken.  In addition, USCIS is reporting that 56,300 of the 65,000 regular cap H-1Bs have been taken.  At this rate the remaining H-1Bs for the year should be used up within the next month or two.  If you were planning on filing an H-1B it would be a good idea to file immediately.  The next opportunity to apply for H-1Bs after all 65,000 have been taken is April 2012 and those new beneficiaries that are approved in April 2012 will not be able to work in H-1B status until October 2012.