For many skilled professionals around the globe, the h1b visa lottery results represents more than just a work permit—it’s a gateway to building a career in the United States, gaining international experience, and achieving long-term personal and professional goals.
Every year, tech specialists, engineers, researchers, and other highly qualified workers submit their applications, hoping for a chance to be selected.
But here’s the challenge: demand for the H1B visa is enormous. While only 85,000 spots are available each year (65,000 under the regular cap and 20,000 for those with U.S. master’s degrees), hundreds of thousands of applicants compete for them.
To handle this overwhelming demand fairly, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses a computerized lottery system to randomly select eligible candidates.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about H1B visa lottery results including key dates, how to check your status online, the steps to take if you’re selected, and practical alternatives if you’re not. By the end, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready for your next move.
Why the H1B Visa Lottery Matters
The H1B visa is one of the most important pathways for skilled professionals who dream of working in the United States. It allows U.S. companies to bring in talented workers from around the world to fill roles in industries like technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, and research—sectors that drive innovation and economic growth.
But here’s the challenge: the demand for H1B visas is far greater than the number available. Every year, USCIS only issues 85,000 visas—65,000 under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants holding advanced degrees from U.S. universities.
This limited supply means that hundreds of thousands of qualified applicants compete for a small number of spots.To manage this overwhelming demand fairly, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses a random computerized lottery system.
Instead of judging applications on a first-come, first-served basis, the lottery gives every eligible applicant an equal chance of being selected, no matter when they applied.
Quick Fact: For the 2025 fiscal year, more than 750,000 registrations were submitted—yet only 85,000 applicants were chosen. That means the vast majority of hopeful candidates did not secure a spot.
This is why the H1B lottery results are so critical. A “selected” status can be life-changing, opening the door to career opportunities in the U.S. On the other hand, a “not selected” result means applicants must plan carefully for alternatives.
Key Dates for H1B Visa Lottery Results 2025 & 2026
Planning around the lottery deadlines is crucial. Missing even one step can cost you your chance to work in the U.S. Here’s a clear breakdown of the H1B visa lottery timeline for both 2025 and 2026.
H1B Visa Lottery Timeline at a Glance
| Year | Registration Window | Lottery Results Announcement | Employer Filing Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 1 – March 20, 2025 | April 2025 (official USCIS update) | June 30, 2025 |
| 2026 | March 2026 (expected) | April 2026 (expected) | June 2026 (expected) |
What These Dates Mean for Applicants
Employer Filing Deadline (June):
Being selected doesn’t guarantee a visa. Your employer must file Form I-129 and supporting documents before the deadline. If they fail, your spot is lost.
Registration Window (March):
This is the period when employers submit registrations on behalf of candidates. Missing this step means you’ll have to wait until the following year.
Lottery Results (April):
USCIS runs a computerized lottery and announces who has been “Selected” or “Not Selected.” Applicants can view results through their myUSCIS online account.
How to Check H1B Visa Lottery Results Online
For every applicant, the moment of truth comes when USCIS releases the H1B visa lottery results. Thankfully, checking your status online is simple if you know where to look. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Step-by-Step Guide (via USCIS Portal)
1. Log in to your myUSCIS account
Go to the USCIS website and log in using the same credentials you used to register for the H1B lottery. Make sure you use the correct employer-linked account, not a personal one, since results are tied to the registration ID.
2. Navigate to the “H-1B Registration” section
Once inside your account dashboard, look for the H-1B Registration tab. This is where all lottery updates are displayed. Each applicant’s case will show up under this section, along with its latest status.
3. Check your status carefully
USCIS provides three possible outcomes:
- Selected – Congratulations! Your registration was picked. Your employer can now file an official H1B petition (Form I-129) within the filing window.
- Submitted – This means your registration wasn’t selected in the first round, but it will remain in the pool in case USCIS runs additional lotteries. Many applicants are chosen in later rounds, so don’t lose hope.
- Not Selected – Unfortunately, your registration was not picked this year. You’ll see this update once USCIS completes all lottery rounds for the fiscal year.
4. Download and save your notice
Pro Tip: If you’re selected, USCIS will provide a formal Selection Notice PDF. Always download and save this document — you’ll need it for filing the petition and as proof of selection.ds.
What Happens If You’re Selected?
- Your employer must file Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker).
- Attach all supporting documents: job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and filing fees.
- Submit before the deadline (usually 90 days).
Checklist for Selected Applicants:
- Confirm employer sponsorship.
- Gather academic/professional records.
- Review filing deadlines.
- Track USCIS processing updates.
What If You’re Not Selected? Alternatives & Next Steps
Rejection can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Some common alternatives include:
- Reapply next year – Many candidates apply multiple times before being selected.
- OPT / STEM OPT extension – For international students in the U.S.
- O-1 visa – For individuals with extraordinary ability.
- L-1 visa – For intra-company transferees.
Pro Tip: Consult an immigration attorney to explore the best alternative visa options.
Common Mistakes That Hurt H1B Chances
- Submitting duplicate registrations.
- Falling for fake job offers or lottery scams.
- Incorrect employer or personal information.
- Missing the employer petition filing deadline.
Warning: USCIS has strict fraud detection systems. Avoid shortcuts or unauthorized agents.
H1B Visa Lottery Results 2026 – What to Expect
- Demand continues to rise, especially from India and China.
- Selection chances are expected to remain around 20–30%.
- USCIS may introduce changes to prevent multiple registrations from the same applicant.
Supporting keyword naturally placed here: H1B visa lottery results 2026.
Expert Insights & Success Rates
Immigration attorneys report that:
- Advanced degree holders often have better odds due to the master’s cap exemption.
- Employers with a strong compliance history improve chances of smooth processing.
5-Year Trend (Applications vs. Selections):
- FY 2022: 308K registrations → 85K selected
- FY 2023: 483K registrations → 85K selected
- FY 2024: 758K registrations → 85K selected
- FY 2025: 750K+ registrations → 85K selected
- FY 2026: Expected 700K+ → 85K selected
Real-Life Applicant Stories
- Ravi, Software Engineer (India): Selected after 3 attempts, now working in Silicon Valley.
- Ana, Data Scientist (Brazil): Not selected, switched to O-1 visa through her research work.
These stories highlight the mix of luck, persistence, and planning involved.
FAQs
Q1: When will H1B visa lottery results 2025 be announced?
Results are usually released in April 2025 via the USCIS portal.
Q2: How do I check my H1B visa lottery results online?
Log into your USCIS account and check under “H-1B Registration” for your application status.
Q3: What does “Submitted” mean in the USCIS portal?
It means your application remains in the pool and may still be selected in later rounds.
Q4: What happens if I am selected?
Your employer must file Form I-129 within the filing window.
Q5: Can I reapply if not selected?
Yes, you can reapply in the next fiscal year. Many applicants succeed after multiple attempts.
Q6: What are the chances of selection?
Historically, between 20–30% depending on demand each year
Conclusion – Stay Prepared and Updated
The H1B visa lottery is competitive, unpredictable, and sometimes stressful. But preparation, awareness, and persistence can make all the difference.
Whether you’re aiming for H1B visa lottery results 2025 or 2026, stay updated with official USCIS announcements, work closely with your employer, and explore alternatives if needed.
