Understanding the likelihood and impact of a potential second H-1B lottery drawing.
With the initial FY2027 H-1B lottery selection odds at 35.3%, many are speculating about a potential second drawing. Get Wisa analyzes the data, including selection rates for different wage levels, to provide insights into the factors that might trigger another lottery and what it means for applicants.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | ↓ 15% |
| FY2027 Level 1 Odds | ~15% | ↓ 20% |
| FY2027 Level 4 Odds | ~62% | ↑ 5% |
| New Form I-129 | Mandatory April 2026 | New |
The 27% decrease in total H-1B registrations for FY2027, compared to FY2026, is a significant indicator. Our analysis suggests this drop, combined with the tiered selection odds favoring higher wage levels (Level 4 odds at ~62%), makes a second lottery drawing more plausible if demand remains high among employers needing to fill specific roles.
If you were not selected in the initial H-1B lottery, monitor USCIS announcements closely. While a second drawing isn't guaranteed, employers can still file petitions for cap-subject roles if the quota isn't met. Use Get Wisa to identify potential sponsors who are actively filing.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery saw approximately 343,981 registrations, a notable decrease from the previous year, leading to overall selection odds of 35.3%. This reduction in registrations fuels speculation about a potential second drawing, particularly if USCIS determines that the demand for H-1B visas has not been met.
The tiered selection odds, with Level 1 registrations at ~15% and Level 4 at ~62%, highlight the advantage of higher wage offerings. The mandatory April 2026 update to Form I-129 and its associated fees are also critical considerations for employers preparing for any potential lottery rounds.
Companies with a high volume of H-1B filings demonstrate consistent sponsorship, which is relevant for understanding overall demand and potential for future lottery rounds:
Q: What were the overall H-1B lottery selection odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. This was lower than previous years, fueling speculation about a second drawing.
Q: What factors might lead to a second H-1B lottery drawing in 2026?
A: A second drawing could occur if the initial selection doesn't fill the annual cap, or if there's a significant number of registrations that were not selected. The 27% drop in registrations is a key factor.
Q: How do wage levels affect H-1B lottery odds?
A: Higher wage levels generally correlate with better odds. For FY2027, Level 4 wage-based registrations had ~62% odds, while Level 1 had only ~15%.
Q: Can employers still file H-1B petitions if a second lottery occurs?
A: Yes, if USCIS determines the cap is not met, employers can continue filing. It's crucial to identify sponsors like Amazon or Microsoft who consistently file.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. This was lower than previous years, fueling speculation about a second drawing.
A second drawing could occur if the initial selection doesn't fill the annual cap, or if there's a significant number of registrations that were not selected. The 27% drop in registrations is a key factor.
Higher wage levels generally correlate with better odds. For FY2027, Level 4 wage-based registrations had ~62% odds, while Level 1 had only ~15%.
Yes, if USCIS determines the cap is not met, employers can continue filing. It's crucial to identify sponsors like Amazon or Microsoft who consistently file.