Analyzing the probability of additional H-1B selections based on 2026 data.
With the FY2027 H-1B lottery concluded, many applicants wonder about the possibility of a second drawing. This page examines the total registrations, selection odds, and historical patterns to provide an informed perspective on whether USCIS is likely to conduct additional selections.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Total Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| FY2027 Selection Odds (Overall) | 35.3% | ↓ 10.2% |
| FY2027 Lottery Close Date | March 19, 2026 | On Schedule |
| Top H-1B Filer: Amazon | 55,150 | ↑ 8% |
| Top H-1B Filer: Microsoft | 34,626 | ↑ 12% |
While USCIS does not officially announce plans for a second lottery, historical data suggests it's a possibility, especially if the initial selection pool doesn't fill the annual cap. The 27% decrease in FY2027 registrations compared to FY2026 could make a second draw more likely if demand for petitions remains high.
If your employer is willing and able, encourage them to file H-1B petitions for all selected candidates promptly. If USCIS doesn't receive enough petitions to meet the annual cap after the initial lottery, they may conduct a second lottery draw.
The FY2027 H-1B lottery closed on March 19, 2026, with approximately 343,981 registrations, a 27% decrease from the previous year. This reduction in registrations led to overall selection odds of 35.3%. Historically, USCIS has conducted second lottery drawings when the number of selected registrations does not result in enough petitions to fill the annual H-1B cap.
While a second drawing isn't guaranteed, the lower number of registrations for FY2027 might increase the likelihood if demand for H-1B visas remains strong throughout the petitioning period. Applicants should continue to monitor USCIS announcements and their application status. The new Form I-129, mandatory from April 2026, and the $100K fee (for consular processing) are also factors influencing the overall H-1B landscape.
Major employers who consistently file H-1B petitions and would be involved in any subsequent lottery draws include:
Search thousands of verified H-1B sponsors by company, industry, and location.
Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →USCIS does not confirm second drawings in advance. However, historical patterns suggest it's possible if the initial selections don't fill the annual cap.
A second drawing may occur if not enough selected candidates file their I-129 petitions to meet the annual H-1B visa cap.
Approximately 343,981 registrations were submitted for FY2027, a 27% decrease from FY2026, leading to overall selection odds of 35.3%.
Monitor official USCIS announcements and consult resources like Get Wisa for analysis. Employers should be prepared to file petitions promptly if selected.