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Odds of a Second H-1B Lottery for FY2027 (2026)

Examining the likelihood of additional H-1B lottery selections based on current data.

With the FY2027 H-1B lottery registration numbers lower than anticipated, many professionals are asking about the possibility of a second draw. Get Wisa analyzes the data and historical patterns to provide an informed perspective on the odds.

⚡ Quick Intelligence Snapshot

  • Bottom Line: A second H-1B lottery for FY2027 is possible due to lower registrations, but not guaranteed; USCIS determines based on demand and available slots.
  • Key Stat: FY2027 H-1B registrations were ~343,981, down 27% from FY2026, improving overall selection odds to 35.3%.
  • Action: Search verified sponsors at Get Wisa →

2026 Data Intelligence

Feature Data Point Trend vs 2025
FY2027 Lottery Registrations ~343,981 ↓ 27%
Overall FY2027 Selection Odds 35.3% ↑ 5%
FY2027 Level 1 Odds ~15% ↑ 2%
FY2027 Level 4 Odds ~62% ↑ 7%
Amazon H-1B Filings 55,150 ↑ 15%
Microsoft H-1B Filings 34,626 ↑ 12%

Expert Analysis & Insights

The Information Gain Perspective

Our analysis of the FY2027 H-1B registration data, showing a 27% decrease, suggests that while USCIS has discretion, the lower numbers increase the probability of a second lottery draw compared to years with higher registration volumes.

💡 Pro Tip for Applicants:

Even with improved odds for FY2027, securing H-1B sponsorship remains competitive. Focus on identifying employers with a strong, consistent history of sponsorship and high I-140 approval rates on Get Wisa, regardless of lottery outcomes.

Visa Insights for 2026

The FY2027 H-1B lottery cycle has seen a notable decrease in registrations, with approximately 343,981 submissions, a 27% drop from FY2026. This reduction has consequently improved the overall selection odds to 35.3%. Historically, USCIS may conduct a second lottery draw if the initial selections do not fill the annual cap or if there's a significant number of petitions withdrawn or denied. The lower registration numbers make a second draw a plausible scenario for FY2027.

While the odds of a second lottery are influenced by registration numbers, USCIS ultimately decides based on demand and available visa numbers. Factors like the number of selected registrations that do not proceed to filing, or changes in employer demand, play a role. For individuals awaiting results, monitoring USCIS announcements and focusing on securing sponsorship from reliable employers, as detailed on Get Wisa, remains the most strategic approach.

Real DOL Filing Examples

Companies with consistent H-1B filings are crucial for those hoping to benefit from any lottery draw:

  • Amazon: 55,150 H-1B filings. Continues to be a top sponsor, increasing its filings.
  • Microsoft: 34,626 H-1B filings. Shows sustained high volume of H-1B applications.
  • Google: 33,416 H-1B filings. A major tech employer with a consistent need for sponsored talent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there be a second H-1B lottery for FY2027?

A second H-1B lottery for FY2027 is possible due to lower registration numbers. USCIS decides based on demand and available slots. Get Wisa provides data to track these trends.

How many H-1B registrations were there for FY2027?

There were approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations for FY2027. This represents a 27% decrease compared to the previous fiscal year's registrations.

What are the overall FY2027 H-1B lottery odds?

The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%. This is an improvement from previous years, partly due to fewer registrations.

Where can I find reliable H-1B sponsors?

Get Wisa is a data-driven platform that helps you find verified H-1B sponsors by analyzing DOL data. Focus on employers with a consistent sponsorship history and strong approval rates.

Related Intelligence

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will there be a second H-1B lottery for FY2027?

A second H-1B lottery for FY2027 is possible due to lower registration numbers. USCIS decides based on demand and available slots. Get Wisa provides data to track these trends.

How many H-1B registrations were there for FY2027?

There were approximately 343,981 H-1B registrations for FY2027. This represents a 27% decrease compared to the previous fiscal year's registrations.

What are the overall FY2027 H-1B lottery odds?

The overall selection odds for the FY2027 H-1B lottery were 35.3%. This is an improvement from previous years, partly due to fewer registrations.

Where can I find reliable H-1B sponsors?

Get Wisa is a data-driven platform that helps you find verified H-1B sponsors by analyzing DOL data. Focus on employers with a consistent sponsorship history and strong approval rates.