A step-by-step guide to understanding your H-1B lottery results and what each status means for your immigration journey.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery results have been released, and many applicants are anxiously checking their status. Understanding how to interpret your receipt number status—whether 'Submitted,' 'Selected,' or 'Not Selected'—is crucial for planning your next steps. This guide will walk you through the process and clarify what each status signifies.
| Feature | Data Point | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Close Date | March 19, 2026 | Initial selections announced shortly after. |
| Total Registrations (FY2027) | ~343,981 | High competition, but down 27% from FY2026. |
| Overall Selection Odds (FY2027) | 35.3% | Indicates a competitive lottery. |
| "Submitted" Status Meaning | Not yet selected | Still eligible for future selections if USCIS conducts more rounds. |
While many applicants are disheartened by a 'Submitted' status, our historical data analysis shows that USCIS has, in previous years, conducted second or even third lottery rounds. The current ~343,981 registrations for FY2027, though lower than FY2026, still leaves room for potential additional selections if initial petitions are withdrawn or denied, making 'Submitted' a status of cautious optimism.
If your status is 'Submitted,' do not lose hope. Continue to monitor your USCIS online account regularly. While not guaranteed, a second lottery round is a possibility, especially if USCIS determines they haven't met their quota from the initial selections. Consult your employer's immigration counsel for guidance.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery officially closed on March 19, 2026. Following this, USCIS began notifying employers of selected registrations. Your employer or their legal counsel will typically inform you of your status. To check independently, you'll need the 13-character USCIS receipt number provided by your employer. This number allows you to log into your USCIS online account and view the status of your registration.
A 'Selected' status means your employer can now proceed with filing the H-1B petition. 'Not Selected' indicates your registration was not chosen in the current round. The 'Submitted' status is often the most confusing: it means your registration was entered into the lottery but has not yet been selected or explicitly denied. This status persists until USCIS makes a final determination, which could include selection in a subsequent round if one occurs.
Google: With 33,416 H-1B filings, Google's employees often receive 'Selected' notifications early due to high volume and organized processes. However, even with large employers, 'Submitted' statuses are common for those not initially chosen.
Infosys: As a major H-1B filer with 32,840 records, Infosys manages a large pool of lottery registrations. Their internal systems are designed to quickly communicate 'Selected' or 'Submitted' statuses to their employees.
Microsoft: Filing 34,626 H-1B petitions, Microsoft's candidates experience the full range of lottery outcomes. Their immigration teams provide clear guidance on checking status and next steps, whether 'Selected' or 'Submitted.'
Log into your USCIS online account using the credentials provided by your employer. Navigate to the 'Case Status' section and enter your 13-character receipt number to view your FY2027 lottery status.
'Submitted' means your registration was entered into the lottery but has not been selected yet. It remains eligible for selection in any subsequent lottery rounds USCIS might conduct later in the year.
Yes, a second lottery round is possible if USCIS determines they have not received enough H-1B petitions to meet the annual cap from the initial selections. Monitor official USCIS announcements for updates.
If your status changes, your employer will typically be notified first. USCIS will update your online account. There's no fixed timeline for subsequent rounds, so continuous monitoring is advised.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Log into your USCIS online account using the credentials provided by your employer. Navigate to the 'Case Status' section and enter your 13-character receipt number to view your FY2027 lottery status.
'Submitted' means your registration was entered into the lottery but has not been selected yet. It remains eligible for selection in any subsequent lottery rounds USCIS might conduct later in the year.
Yes, a second lottery round is possible if USCIS determines they have not received enough H-1B petitions to meet the annual cap from the initial selections. Monitor official USCIS announcements for updates.
If your status changes, your employer will typically be notified first. USCIS will update your online account. There's no fixed timeline for subsequent rounds, so continuous monitoring is advised.