Analyzing the probability based on FY2027 registration data and historical trends.
With the FY2027 H-1B lottery registrations down significantly, speculation about a second drawing is high. This page analyzes the data, including total registrations and selection odds, to assess the likelihood and potential implications of further lottery rounds.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2026 Lottery Registrations | ~471,111 | Baseline |
| FY2027 Overall Selection Odds | 35.3% | ↑ ~10% points |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | New |
The 27% decrease in FY2027 H-1B registrations, compared to FY2026, is a significant indicator. Historically, when initial registration numbers fall short of the annual cap and initial selections don't fill the cap, USCIS has conducted subsequent lottery drawings.
Even if you were selected in the first round, be aware that USCIS might conduct further selections if the initial pool doesn't meet the annual cap. Keep your documentation and employer's information updated, and monitor official USCIS announcements.
The substantial 27% drop in H-1B registrations for FY2027, from approximately 471,111 in FY2026 to around 343,981, significantly increases the overall selection odds to 35.3%. This decrease makes a second H-1B lottery drawing a distinct possibility, as USCIS aims to fill the annual cap of 85,000 (including 20,000 for the Master's cap).
Historically, USCIS has conducted multiple rounds of selections when the initial lottery does not exhaust the available visa numbers. Factors such as economic conditions, changes in immigration policy, and employer demand influence registration numbers. The introduction of the new Form I-129 in April 2026 also adds a layer of procedural change that could indirectly affect filing patterns.
While DOL data doesn't directly predict future lottery rounds, the following companies are consistently among the largest H-1B sponsors, indicating they would likely participate in any subsequent lottery drawings:
Q: What is the likelihood of a second H-1B lottery drawing for FY2027?
A: Given the 27% decrease in registrations and historical precedents, a second drawing is plausible if the initial selections do not fill the annual cap.
Q: How many H-1B registrations were there for FY2027?
A: Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a notable decrease from the previous year.
Q: What were the overall selection odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%, significantly higher than in previous years due to fewer registrations.
Q: Where can I find reliable H-1B sponsorship data?
A: Get Wisa offers a comprehensive database of over 45,000 verified H-1B sponsors, providing insights into filing history and sponsorship trends.
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →Given the 27% decrease in registrations and historical precedents, a second drawing is plausible if the initial selections do not fill the annual cap.
Approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations were submitted for the FY2027 lottery, a notable decrease from the previous year.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%, significantly higher than in previous years due to fewer registrations.
Get Wisa offers a comprehensive database of over 45,000 verified H-1B sponsors, providing insights into filing history and sponsorship trends.