Analyzing the likelihood and potential impact of a second H-1B lottery draw for the upcoming fiscal year.
Speculation about a second H-1B lottery draw in July 2026 is high due to a significant drop in registrations. This page breaks down the data, analyzes the probability, and explains how selection odds might play out for those awaiting a chance.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | ↑ 5% |
| FY2027 Level 1 Odds | ~15% | ↑ 2% |
| FY2027 Level 2 Odds | ~31% | ↑ 4% |
| FY2027 Level 3 Odds | ~46% | ↑ 5% |
| FY2027 Level 4 Odds | ~62% | ↑ 7% |
The significant 27% year-over-year decrease in H-1B registrations for FY2027 strongly suggests USCIS may conduct a second lottery draw. Our analysis indicates that employers who did not fill their cap in the initial round are likely candidates for a subsequent draw, potentially in July.
If USCIS conducts a second lottery, it will likely be based on the same registration pool. Employers who registered candidates but didn't select them in the first round may do so now. Continuously monitor your USCIS account and employer communications.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery saw a substantial decrease in registrations, leading to improved overall selection odds of 35.3%. This decline has fueled strong community discussion and anticipation for a potential second lottery draw, possibly in July. Such a draw would offer another opportunity for employers to fill their allocated H-1B cap slots.
The odds vary significantly by wage level, with Level 4 positions having the highest selection probability at 62%, while Level 1 positions stand at approximately 15%. For those not selected in the initial round, a second draw could be a crucial pathway. Employers should be prepared to submit petitions promptly if selected, especially with the new Form I-129 mandatory from April 2026.
While specific employer actions regarding a second lottery are speculative, historical patterns and current data provide context:
Q: Is a second H-1B lottery draw for FY2027 likely?
A: Yes, the significant drop in registrations (27% less) makes a second draw highly probable, potentially in July, to fill the remaining cap.
Q: What were the overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery?
A: The overall selection odds for FY2027 were approximately 35.3%. This is an improvement from previous years, partly due to fewer registrations.
Q: Do higher wage levels increase my chances in the H-1B lottery?
A: Absolutely. Our data shows Level 4 wage positions had selection odds around 62%, significantly higher than Level 1 at ~15%.
Q: If a second lottery occurs, will it use the same registrations?
A: Typically, a second lottery draw uses the pool of registrations from the initial selection period. Employers who didn't select candidates may now do so.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Yes, the significant drop in registrations (27% less) makes a second draw highly probable, potentially in July, to fill the remaining cap.
The overall selection odds for FY2027 were approximately 35.3%. This is an improvement from previous years, partly due to fewer registrations.
Absolutely. Our data shows Level 4 wage positions had selection odds around 62%, significantly higher than Level 1 at ~15%.
Typically, a second lottery draw uses the pool of registrations from the initial selection period. Employers who didn't select candidates may now do so.