Examining the likelihood and implications of a second H-1B lottery based on FY2027 data.
Speculation about a second H-1B lottery in July 2026 is common among international professionals. Get Wisa analyzes the FY2027 registration numbers and historical patterns to provide a data-driven perspective on whether a second lottery is probable.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| FY2027 Lottery Registrations | ~343,981 | ↓ 27% |
| Overall Selection Odds (FY2027) | 35.3% | ↑ 5% |
| Level 1 Selection Odds (FY2027) | ~15% | ↑ 2% |
| Level 4 Selection Odds (FY2027) | ~62% | ↑ 7% |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | N/A |
| Social Media Vetting Expansion | March 30, 2026 | N/A |
USCIS typically holds a second lottery draw if the initial selection does not exhaust the annual H-1B cap. Given the 27% decrease in FY2027 registrations compared to FY2026, the likelihood of a second draw, potentially in July, increases if the initial selection rate doesn't fill the quota, especially for lower wage levels.
Even if you were not selected in the initial FY2027 lottery, continue to monitor USCIS announcements. If a second lottery is announced, ensure your sponsoring employer is prepared to submit the petition promptly, as these opportunities are time-sensitive.
The question of a second H-1B lottery in July 2026 is a recurring one for international professionals. USCIS conducts subsequent lotteries if the initial selection process does not result in the full utilization of the annual H-1B visa cap. For FY2027, the number of registrations decreased by 27% to approximately 343,981, leading to overall selection odds of 35.3%. This reduction in registrations could increase the probability of a second draw if the initial selections don't fill the cap.
Historically, USCIS has conducted second lotteries when demand falls short. While there's no guarantee, the lower registration numbers for FY2027 make it a plausible scenario. Applicants should stay informed about USCIS announcements and be prepared for potential further selection rounds. The new Form I-129 (mandatory April 2026) and expanded social media vetting (March 30, 2026) are procedural changes that apply regardless of lottery rounds.
Companies that frequently sponsor H-1B visas are those most likely to participate in any lottery rounds:
Q: Is a second H-1B lottery confirmed for July 2026?
A: USCIS has not confirmed a second H-1B lottery for July 2026. However, with fewer registrations for FY2027, it's a possibility if the cap isn't met.
Q: What were the FY2027 H-1B lottery registration numbers?
A: Approximately 343,981 registrations were submitted for the FY2027 H-1B lottery, a 27% decrease from the previous year.
Q: What are the overall selection odds for FY2027?
A: The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%.
Q: How does the new I-129 form relate to lottery rounds?
A: The new I-129 form (mandatory April 2026) affects the application process itself, not the lottery selection mechanism. It may influence scrutiny and processing times post-selection.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →USCIS has not confirmed a second H-1B lottery for July 2026. However, with fewer registrations for FY2027, it's a possibility if the cap isn't met.
Approximately 343,981 registrations were submitted for the FY2027 H-1B lottery, a 27% decrease from the previous year.
The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were approximately 35.3%.
The new I-129 form (mandatory April 2026) affects the application process itself, not the lottery selection mechanism. It may influence scrutiny and processing times post-selection.