Understanding the likelihood of additional H-1B lottery selections for the upcoming fiscal year.
Following the conclusion of the FY2027 H-1B lottery registration period on March 19, 2026, many applicants are left wondering about the possibility of a second drawing. This page analyzes historical trends and current data to provide insights into potential additional selections.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registration Deadline | March 19, 2026 | N/A |
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Selection Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 10.2% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory Date | April 2026 | N/A |
While USCIS does not pre-announce second H-1B lottery drawings, historical patterns suggest they occur when the initial selections do not exhaust the annual visa cap. The ~27% decrease in FY2027 registrations compared to FY2026 might increase the likelihood of a second drawing if initial selections are insufficient.
Even if you weren't selected in the initial FY2027 H-1B lottery, don't lose hope. Continue exploring other visa options or work with your employer to understand the possibility and timeline of a second drawing or other sponsorship pathways.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery concluded with approximately 343,981 registrations, a notable decrease of 27% from the previous year. This resulted in overall selection odds of 35.3%. USCIS has the discretion to conduct additional selections if the initial number of selected registrations does not fill the annual H-1B cap. Factors influencing this include the number of selected registrants who ultimately file petitions and the number of petitions approved.
The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 is a procedural change applicants must be aware of. While USCIS doesn't guarantee a second drawing, the lower registration numbers for FY2027 might create a scenario where one is needed to meet the demand for H-1B visas. Applicants should monitor official USCIS announcements for any updates regarding further selections.
While specific company filings don't directly predict lottery drawings, the scale of sponsorship indicates the pool of potential applicants:
USCIS may conduct a second H-1B lottery if the initial selections don't fill the annual cap. There is no guarantee, but lower registration numbers can increase the possibility.
Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, which closed on March 19, 2026. This was a 27% decrease from FY2026.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. Odds varied significantly by wage level, with higher levels having better chances.
Get Wisa's database provides access to over 45,000 verified H-1B sponsors, allowing you to search for companies based on location, industry, and role.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →USCIS may conduct a second H-1B lottery if the initial selections don't fill the annual cap. There is no guarantee, but lower registration numbers can increase the possibility.
Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, which closed on March 19, 2026. This was a 27% decrease from FY2026.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%. Odds varied significantly by wage level, with higher levels having better chances.
Get Wisa's database provides access to over 45,000 verified H-1B sponsors, allowing you to search for companies based on location, industry, and role.