Navigating the uncertainty of your FY2027 H-1B lottery registration status.
For many H-1B hopefuls, seeing "Submitted" as their lottery status in mid-April 2026, weeks after the official closure, is a source of significant anxiety. This guide provides clarity on why your status might remain unchanged, what it signifies, and the realistic next steps.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Closure | March 19, 2026 | Past |
| Total Registrations | ~343,981 | Down 27% from FY2026 |
| Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | Competitive |
| Premium Processing | $2,965 / 15 business days | For selected petitions |
| New Form I-129 | Mandatory April 2026 | For selected petitions |
While most selections are announced promptly, our historical data analysis shows a small percentage of "Submitted" statuses can persist for several weeks post-announcement, often due to system processing lags or staggered notifications, not necessarily a negative outcome.
Do not assume a "Submitted" status means rejection. USCIS sometimes releases selections in waves. Focus on preparing your Form I-129 documentation with your employer, as a selection notice could arrive unexpectedly.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery officially closed on March 19, 2026, with initial selection notifications typically released shortly thereafter. However, it's not uncommon for some registrants to see their status remain "Submitted" well into April. This can be due to various factors, including USCIS system processing delays, staggered notification releases, or ongoing internal reviews. A "Submitted" status does not equate to a rejection; it simply means the registration is still under active consideration.
With total registrations at ~343,981 and overall selection odds at 35.3%, the lottery remains competitive. For those eventually selected, the new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, will be a critical next step. While waiting, applicants should work with their employers to gather all necessary documentation for the petition, ensuring readiness for a potential selection notice.
While specific "Submitted" status examples are not public, major H-1B filers like Amazon (55,150 filings), Microsoft (34,626 filings), and Google (33,416 filings) submit thousands of registrations annually. A small percentage of their registrants, like those from any company, may experience delayed status updates. These companies are well-versed in navigating the H-1B process, including preparing for the new Form I-129 once a selection is made, regardless of initial status update timing.
A "Submitted" status means USCIS is still processing your registration. While most selections are announced quickly, some may remain "Submitted" due to system delays or staggered notifications. It does not necessarily mean rejection.
USCIS typically completes initial selections by late March. However, updates can continue into April. Keep monitoring your USCIS online account. There's no fixed date for all notifications.
Continue working with your employer to prepare all necessary documentation for the Form I-129 petition. If selected, you'll have a limited window to file. Stay informed but avoid excessive anxiety.
Not definitively. While selected statuses change to "Selected," "Submitted" simply means it's still under review. Only a "Not Selected" status confirms non-selection. Patience is key during this period.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →A "Submitted" status means USCIS is still processing your registration. While most selections are announced quickly, some may remain "Submitted" due to system delays or staggered notifications. It does not necessarily mean rejection.
USCIS typically completes initial selections by late March. However, updates can continue into April. Keep monitoring your USCIS online account. There's no fixed date for all notifications.
Continue working with your employer to prepare all necessary documentation for the Form I-129 petition. If selected, you'll have a limited window to file. Stay informed but avoid excessive anxiety.
Not definitively. While selected statuses change to "Selected," "Submitted" simply means it's still under review. Only a "Not Selected" status confirms non-selection. Patience is key during this period.