What is the H-1B visa cap for fiscal year 2024?
H-1B Visa
January 01, 2026
1,253 views
Answer
📋 Summary:
The H-1B visa cap for fiscal year 2024 is 85,000 visas total, split between regular cap (65,000) and advanced degree exemption (20,000). The cap is typically reached within the first week of April.
The H-1B visa cap for fiscal year 2024 is 85,000 visas, which includes:
- 65,000 regular cap visas - Available to all applicants
- 20,000 advanced degree exemption visas - Reserved for U.S. master's degree holders
Additional Information:
- The cap is typically reached within the first week of April filing period
- If the cap is exceeded, USCIS conducts a lottery to select petitions
- Advanced degree holders get two chances in the lottery (regular cap + advanced degree cap)
- Cap-exempt employers (universities, non-profits) are not subject to the cap
💡 In Other Words:
Think of the H-1B cap like a limited number of tickets to a popular event. There are 85,000 total "tickets" available each year. If more people apply than tickets available, a lottery system decides who gets selected. Having a U.S. master's degree gives you better odds with two chances in the lottery.
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