Alleviate anxiety by understanding why your H-1B lottery status might still be "Submitted" post-selection.
The H-1B FY2027 lottery closed on March 19, 2026, and for many, seeing a "Submitted" status persists, causing significant anxiety. This page clarifies what this status indicates, potential reasons for delays, and actionable steps to take, grounded in the latest DOL data.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Close | March 19, 2026 | Past |
| Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% from FY2026 |
| Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | Higher than previous years |
| Premium Processing | $2,965 / 15 business days | N/A for lottery status |
Our analysis of past lottery cycles indicates that USCIS typically updates all selected statuses within a few days of the initial announcement. If your status remains "Submitted" weeks after March 19, 2026, it's highly probable your petition was not selected. Unlike previous years, the system is now more efficient in updating selected statuses, making prolonged "Submitted" statuses a strong indicator of non-selection.
While waiting for an update, use this time to explore alternative visa options or cap-exempt employers. Don't solely rely on a potential second lottery; proactively researching other pathways can significantly reduce stress and open new opportunities.
The H-1B FY2027 lottery saw approximately 343,981 registrations, with an overall selection rate of 35.3%. For many applicants, the period following the March 19, 2026, closure is fraught with uncertainty, especially if their status remains "Submitted." This status generally indicates that the registration was not selected in the initial random drawing.
USCIS typically processes and notifies selected petitions within a few days to a week after the lottery closes. While there's always a slim possibility of a technical delay, a prolonged "Submitted" status usually means non-selection. Employers and beneficiaries should prepare for this outcome and consider alternative strategies, such as exploring cap-exempt opportunities or other visa categories.
Infosys (32,840 H-1B filings): A major H-1B filer, Infosys would have submitted thousands of registrations. Many of their beneficiaries would have seen "Submitted" if not selected in the lottery.
Tata Consultancy Services (28,950 H-1B filings): Similar to Infosys, Tata's high volume of registrations means a significant number of their candidates would experience the "Submitted" status post-lottery.
Cognizant (26,700 H-1B filings): Cognizant's beneficiaries, like those from other large consulting firms, would also be among the many whose lottery status remains "Submitted" if not chosen in the initial selection round.
If your H-1B lottery status remains "Submitted" after March 19, 2026, it generally means your registration was not selected in the initial FY2027 lottery round.
USCIS typically updates selected statuses within a few days to a week after the lottery closes. A prolonged "Submitted" status usually indicates non-selection.
A second H-1B lottery in 2026 is less likely this year due to lower registration numbers (~343,981). It's not guaranteed, so explore other options.
If unselected, consider cap-exempt employers, other visa categories like O-1, or preparing for future H-1B lotteries. Proactive planning is crucial for your immigration journey.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →If your H-1B lottery status remains "Submitted" after March 19, 2026, it generally means your registration was not selected in the initial FY2027 lottery round.
USCIS typically updates selected statuses within a few days to a week after the lottery closes. A prolonged "Submitted" status usually indicates non-selection.
A second H-1B lottery in 2026 is less likely this year due to lower registration numbers (~343,981). It's not guaranteed, so explore other options.
If unselected, consider cap-exempt employers, other visa categories like O-1, or preparing for future H-1B lotteries. Proactive planning is crucial for your immigration journey.