Guidance for F-1 OPT graduates selected in the FY2027 H-1B lottery on the next steps.
Congratulations on being selected in the FY2027 H-1B lottery! If you are currently on F-1 OPT, understanding the application process and timing for your H-1B visa is crucial. Get Wisa provides clarity on the next steps.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Selection Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 10% |
| FY2027 Lottery Selection Odds (Level 1) | ~15% | ↓ 12% |
| New Form I-129 | Mandatory April 2026 | New |
| Total H-1B Filing Records in Wisa DB | 323,617 | ↑ 8% |
Our analysis of DOL data indicates that while the lottery selection is a critical hurdle, the subsequent H-1B petition filing process for OPT students remains heavily dependent on employer responsiveness and accurate documentation, especially with the new I-129 form.
Once selected, immediately confirm with your sponsoring employer the status of your H-1B petition filing. Ensure they are using the new Form I-129 and are aware of the filing deadlines to maintain your OPT status.
Being selected in the H-1B lottery while on F-1 OPT is a significant step, but the process isn't complete. Your sponsoring employer must file the H-1B petition using the new Form I-129, effective April 2026. The FY2027 lottery saw overall selection odds at 35.3%, a decrease from the previous year.
It's crucial to maintain your OPT status while the H-1B petition is pending. If your OPT is set to expire before your H-1B start date (October 1st), consult with your employer and immigration counsel about potential extensions or maintaining status. The new I-129 form requires careful attention to detail, and employers with a history of sponsorship, like those in Get Wisa's database, are better equipped to navigate this.
Companies with a strong history of H-1B filings are best positioned to handle the petition process after lottery selection:
Q: What happens after my OPT application is selected in the H-1B lottery?
A: Your sponsoring employer must file the H-1B petition using the new Form I-129. You must maintain your OPT status until the H-1B takes effect.
Q: Can I continue working on OPT while my H-1B petition is pending?
A: Yes, if your OPT is valid and your employer files the H-1B petition correctly, you can generally continue working under OPT until the H-1B status is approved or denied.
Q: What is the deadline for filing an H-1B petition after lottery selection?
A: Your employer must file the petition within the timeframe specified by USCIS, typically within 90 days of the selection notice, using the new I-129 form.
Q: Where can I find companies that sponsor H-1B visas for OPT graduates?
A: Get Wisa provides a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, helping OPT graduates find companies with a history of H-1B sponsorship.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Your sponsoring employer must file the H-1B petition using the new Form I-129. You must maintain your OPT status until the H-1B takes effect.
Yes, if your OPT is valid and your employer files the H-1B petition correctly, you can generally continue working under OPT until the H-1B status is approved or denied.
Your employer must file the petition within the timeframe specified by USCIS, typically within 90 days of the selection notice, using the new I-129 form.
Get Wisa provides a database of over 45,000 verified sponsors, helping OPT graduates find companies with a history of H-1B sponsorship.