Examining the likelihood and implications of a potential second H-1B lottery selection.
Speculation about a second H-1B lottery draw in July 2026 is a recurring concern for many professionals. Get Wisa analyzes historical patterns and current data to provide clarity on the possibility, odds, and what it means for applicants.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | ↓ 15% |
| FY2027 Lottery Closing Date | March 19, 2026 | New |
| PERM Processing Time | 503 days | ↑ 5% |
| Social Media Vetting Expansion | March 30, 2026 | New |
| Total H-1B Filing Records in Wisa | 323,617 | N/A |
While USCIS has not historically conducted a second H-1B lottery in recent years, the significant decrease in registrations for FY2027 (down 27%) could theoretically prompt such a measure if demand for remaining visas arises later in the year.
Do not rely on the possibility of a second lottery. Focus on securing sponsorship from employers with a strong history of filing, as this offers a more predictable path, regardless of lottery outcomes.
The question of a second H-1B lottery draw in July 2026 is a frequent topic of discussion within the international professional community. While USCIS has not officially announced any plans for a second draw, the decrease in FY2027 registrations (down 27% to ~343,981) leaves room for speculation. Historically, a second lottery is rare, but not impossible if the initial selection pool doesn't fill the cap. The overall selection odds were 35.3%, with Level 1 odds being the lowest at ~15%. Applicants should prepare for the possibility of needing to navigate PERM sponsorship if H-1B lottery chances are slim, especially given the 503-day average PERM processing time.
- Amazon: Filed 55,150 H-1B petitions in FY2026, demonstrating consistent demand for sponsored roles, independent of lottery outcomes. - Microsoft: With 34,626 H-1B filings in FY2026, they represent employers who continue to sponsor regardless of lottery fluctuations. - Google: Submitted 33,416 H-1B applications in FY2026, highlighting a steady need for talent that bypasses lottery uncertainty for many roles.
While rare, USCIS has the discretion to conduct additional selections if the initial lottery does not fill the annual H-1B cap. However, this is not a common occurrence.
There is no official announcement or strong historical precedent for a July second lottery. Speculation exists, but it remains uncertain. Focus on employers with strong sponsorship records.
Approximately 343,981 registrations were submitted for the FY2027 H-1B lottery, a decrease of 27% from the previous fiscal year.
Explore options like OPT extensions, pursuing further education, or seeking employers who sponsor PERM for green cards. Always verify sponsor credibility on Get Wisa.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →While rare, USCIS has the discretion to conduct additional selections if the initial lottery does not fill the annual H-1B cap. However, this is not a common occurrence.
There is no official announcement or strong historical precedent for a July second lottery. Speculation exists, but it remains uncertain. Focus on employers with strong sponsorship records.
Approximately 343,981 registrations were submitted for the FY2027 H-1B lottery, a decrease of 27% from the previous fiscal year.
Explore options like OPT extensions, pursuing further education, or seeking employers who sponsor PERM for green cards. Always verify sponsor credibility on Get Wisa.