H1B Lottery Explained: How the Selection Works
Everything you need to know about the H1B lottery system, selection odds, and strategies to improve your chances.
1Why Is There a Lottery?
The US government caps H1B visas at 85,000 per year (65,000 regular + 20,000 master's cap). In recent years, USCIS has received 400,000–780,000 registrations, far more than available visas. When registrations exceed the cap, USCIS uses a random computerized lottery to select which applications will be processed.
2How the Two-Step Lottery Works
USCIS runs two lotteries. First, all registrations (including those with US master's degrees) enter the regular cap lottery. Those with a US master's degree or higher who aren't selected in the first lottery are then entered into the master's cap lottery for the additional 20,000 slots. This means US master's holders effectively get two chances.
3What Are the Odds?
Selection odds have varied from about 36% (FY2014, when demand first exceeded supply) to below 20% in recent years when registrations have surged. Having a US master's degree slightly improves odds due to the two-lottery system. Multiple employers registering the same person is now prohibited by USCIS rules.
4If Not Selected: What Are Your Options?
If not selected, you can try again the next year. In the meantime, consider OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension if you're a recent graduate, switching to an L-1 visa if working for a multinational, cap-exempt H1B employers like universities, or O-1 visa for extraordinary ability. Some people also pursue Canadian PR as an alternative.
5Cap-Exempt Alternatives
Non-profit research organizations, government research agencies, and institutions of higher education are cap-exempt. They can sponsor H1B workers at any time without going through the lottery. If you're willing to work in academia or research, this eliminates the lottery uncertainty entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to multiple employers to increase my chances?
Multiple employers can register you, but USCIS now has rules against duplicate registrations by the same employer for the same worker. Multiple employers registering you independently is allowed. However, some immigration attorneys advise against staggered applications to avoid USCIS scrutiny.
When does the H1B lottery happen each year?
The registration window typically opens in early March and closes after 2-3 weeks. USCIS announces lottery results in late March or April. The filing period for selected registrations opens April 1.