Data-driven insights into the H-1B lottery selection process.
Understanding the H-1B lottery is crucial for both employers and prospective beneficiaries. Get Wisa provides a detailed analysis of the FY2027 lottery, including registration numbers, selection odds across different wage levels, and strategic considerations for navigating this competitive process.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Close Date | March 19, 2026 | N/A |
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | N/A |
| FY2027 Level 1 Odds | ~15% | N/A |
| FY2027 Level 2 Odds | ~31% | N/A |
| FY2027 Level 3 Odds | ~46% | N/A |
| FY2027 Level 4 Odds | ~62% | N/A |
Our analysis of the FY2027 H-1B lottery data reveals a significant decrease in total registrations (down 27% from FY2026), leading to improved overall selection odds of 35.3%. Crucially, the data shows a strong correlation between higher wage levels (Level 4 at ~62% odds) and increased selection probability, suggesting that employers offering higher salaries have a distinct advantage.
When preparing H-1B registrations, employers should aim to offer wages that fall into the higher prevailing wage levels (Level 3 or 4). This not only increases the beneficiary's chances of selection in the lottery but also signals a stronger commitment to the employee and the H-1B process.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery results offer a mixed bag of insights. A 27% drop in registrations compared to FY2026 has boosted overall selection odds to 35.3%. This could be attributed to various factors, including economic shifts or changes in employer strategies. However, the lottery remains highly competitive.
A key takeaway is the disparity in selection odds based on wage levels. While Level 1 odds were around 15%, Level 4 odds reached approximately 62%. This underscores the importance of wage determination during the PERM process and the LCA filing. The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, may also introduce new data points that could influence future lottery mechanics or employer requirements.
While lottery selection is random, employer sponsorship is the prerequisite. Top national sponsors like Amazon (55,150 filings), Microsoft (34,626), and Google (33,416) consistently file a large volume of H-1B petitions. These companies often offer positions that qualify for higher wage levels, potentially increasing their beneficiaries' lottery odds.
Q: What were the overall H-1B lottery odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. This represents an improvement from previous years due to a decrease in total registrations.
Q: Do higher wage levels increase H-1B lottery chances?
A: Yes, data shows a strong correlation. FY2027 Level 4 wage positions had selection odds around 62%, significantly higher than Level 1 odds at ~15%. Employers should aim for higher wage levels.
Q: How many H-1B registrations were there for FY2027?
A: Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a 27% decrease compared to the previous fiscal year.
Q: Can employers influence lottery selection beyond wage levels?
A: The lottery is primarily random. However, employers can increase their chances by registering multiple eligible candidates and ensuring their proposed wages align with higher DOL levels, which have better odds.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. This represents an improvement from previous years due to a decrease in total registrations.
Yes, data shows a strong correlation. FY2027 Level 4 wage positions had selection odds around 62%, significantly higher than Level 1 odds at ~15%. Employers should aim for higher wage levels.
Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a 27% decrease compared to the previous fiscal year.
The lottery is primarily random. However, employers can increase their chances by registering multiple eligible candidates and ensuring their proposed wages align with higher DOL levels, which have better odds.