USCIS Announces Second H1B Lottery

Big news for H1B candidates and companies

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a second random selection for the H1B regular cap for fiscal year 2025. This second lottery aims to meet the numerical allocation for the regular cap, as the initial selection did not fill all available slots. The advanced degree exemption (master’s cap) has already met its required number, and thus will not undergo a second lottery.

What’s New?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that only 120,603 candidates were selected in the initial H1B lottery for fiscal year 2025. This figure falls short of the 85,000 available H1B visas, leading to speculation about the need for a second lottery. Notably, this second round is expected to focus solely on the regular cap, as the master’s cap has already been addressed.

Key Takeaways

• Second Lottery Announcement: USCIS will conduct a second lottery for the regular cap to meet the FY 2025 numerical allocation.
• Advanced Degree Exemption: There will be no second lottery for the master’s cap as sufficient petitions were received.
• Selection Process: The second round will include all previously submitted registrations, whether they indicated eligibility for the master’s or only the regular cap.
• Checking Results: Selected applicants will be notified through their USCIS online accounts.

Historical Context

The H1B visa program is essential for attracting skilled foreign workers to the U.S. The fiscal year 2025 lottery saw a notable reduction in the number of candidates selected compared to previous years, particularly impacting the regular cap. This shortfall suggests a potential second lottery, a practice that has been utilized in past years when initial selections failed to meet the required numbers.

Why a Second Lottery for the Regular Cap?

USCIS has identified a shortfall in the number of petitions filed under the regular cap. Common issues like incomplete documentation or unmet eligibility criteria often result in denials, necessitating a second selection round. This additional round will help fill the remaining slots and ensure the visa cap is fully utilized.

Shortlisting Fewer Candidates

The USCIS shortlisted 36.01% fewer candidates this year, with only 120,603 selections compared to 188,400 last year. This significant reduction particularly affects the regular cap, indicating a need for a second lottery to meet the overall visa cap.

Including All Registrations

The second lottery will include all registrations from the initial round, covering those eligible for the master’s cap as well as the regular cap. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that all available visas are allocated efficiently.

No Additional Master’s Cap Selection

USCIS has confirmed that there will be no second lottery for the advanced degree exemption. The initial selection met the required number of petitions for the master’s cap, so no further action is needed in this category.

Potential Policy Changes and Adjustments

Changes in immigration policies or new USCIS guidelines could further necessitate a second lottery, especially to address any regulatory adjustments or shifts in the application process. The second lottery is expected to exclusively target the regular cap to balance the overall visa allocation.

The Likelihood of a 2025 Second Lottery

With 442,000 registrations submitted and only 120,603 selected, the gap is clear. A second lottery, specifically for the regular cap, appears likely, with an announcement expected in late July or early August.

What Applicants Should Do?

Applicants awaiting a potential second lottery should ensure their documentation is complete and consider alternative visa options if not selected. Consulting with immigration professionals can offer valuable insights and strategies tailored to individual circumstances.

Conclusion

The USCIS has announced a second H1B lottery for the regular cap for FY 2025. While the master’s cap has been filled, the additional round will help meet the regular cap requirements. Applicants should stay updated through USCIS notifications and consider alternative immigration strategies if not selected.

FAQs

Q1: How does the H1B lottery process work?

The H1B lottery is a random selection process used by USCIS to allocate visas. It starts with the regular cap, followed by a separate selection for the master’s cap if needed.

Q2: What should I do if I am not selected in the first H1B lottery?

There may still be an opportunity in a second lottery, especially for the regular cap. Additionally, explore other visa categories or plan to reapply next year.

Q3: How can I check my H1B lottery status?

Applicants can check their status on the USCIS website using their receipt number.

Q4: Why might USCIS conduct a second H1B lottery?

A second lottery may be necessary if the initial selection does not meet the required visa numbers, particularly for the regular cap, due to issues like petition denials.

Q5: What are the chances of a second H1B lottery for FY 2025?

With fewer candidates selected this year, particularly for the regular cap, the likelihood of a second lottery is high.

Q6: When will the second H1B lottery results be announced?

If a second lottery occurs, results are typically announced a few months after the first round.

Q7: How can I check the results of the H1B lottery?

Check the results through the official USCIS website, ensuring all information is correctly entered.

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website at Wasden Law, Our experienced litigation attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and ensure your immigration journey is as smooth as possible.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the content is accurate and up-to-date, it is not a substitute for professional legal consultation. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and their application can vary based on specific circumstances. We recommend scheduling a consultation with us to obtain advice tailored to your individual situation. The authors and publishers of this article are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

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