What is the H-1B lottery and how does it work?
H-1B Visa
January 01, 2026
1,122 views
Answer
📋 Summary:
H-1B lottery happens when more than 85,000 petitions are filed. USCIS randomly selects petitions for processing. Advanced degree holders get two chances (regular cap + advanced degree cap). Selected petitions are processed, unselected are returned.
H-1B Lottery Process:
- When: When more than 85,000 petitions are filed during cap season
- How: USCIS randomly selects petitions using computer system
- Two lotteries: Regular cap (65,000) and advanced degree cap (20,000)
- Advanced degree advantage: Get two chances - if not selected in advanced degree cap, entered in regular cap
Additional Information:
- Lottery is completely random - no preference for any factors
- Selected petitions are processed for approval/denial
- Unselected petitions are returned with filing fee
- No way to improve odds - purely random
- Many people apply multiple times before getting selected
💡 In Other Words:
The H-1B lottery is like a random drawing - when too many people apply (more than 85,000), they put all the applications in a "hat" and randomly pick 85,000. If you have a U.S. master's degree, you get your name in the hat twice (two chances). It's completely random - there's no way to improve your odds, it's just luck of the draw.
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