With USCIS recently announcing that the FY 2026 H-1B cap has been reached, many prospective applicants and employers are asking: when is the next lottery, and when does registration reopen?
What We Know About the Next H-1B Lottery
- USCIS reached the full cap for the regular H-1B quota (65,000 visas) and the advanced degree exemption (20,000 additional visas) for fiscal year 2026.
- Registration for FY 2026 took place in early March 2025. Specifically, the registration period opened March 7, 2025, and closed March 21, 2025.
- After the lottery selections, USCIS allowed petitioners whose registrations were selected to file full H-1B cap-subject petitions starting April 1, 2025 through June 30, 2025 (with a slight extension for online filings until July 1 in certain cases).
When the Next H-1B Lottery Is Expected
While USCIS has not officially announced the registration window for the FY 2027 lottery, the pattern suggests we will see another registration period in March 2026.
Employers and applicants should watch for:
- announcements from USCIS in early 2026 regarding exact registration opening and closing dates;
- reminders about how to complete the electronic registration correctly; and
- any changes in rules, fees, or eligibility that may come with administrative actions or new proclamations.
What To Do in the Meantime
If you are planning to take part in the 2026 H-1B visa lottery, follow this guidance to be (and stay!) prepared as soon as possible:
- Begin gathering required documents (degree transcripts, employment offers, etc.) early.
- Stay updated on any regulation changes, especially in light of recent policy shifts.
- Ensure your registration account is set up and in good standing.
H-1B Lottery FAQs
What if I missed the FY 2026 registration window?
Then your next chance will be the FY 2027 lottery. Watch for USCIS announcements, likely around March 2026, to register.
Can I file an H-1B petition only if I’m selected in the lottery?
Yes. If USCIS selects your electronic registration, then the employer must file a full petition during the filing window (roughly April through June).
Does the new $100,000 payment requirement affect the lottery timing?
Yes and no. The requirement applies to new petitions submitted after 12:01 a.m. ET on September 21, 2025, which includes the upcoming lottery registrations. But timing of the lottery itself is expected to follow past cycles.
Stay Ahead of Visa Lottery Changes
At Berardi Immigration Law, we know the H-1B lottery can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Our team has decades of experience guiding employers and foreign nationals through every stage of the process, from preparing strong registrations to filing complete petitions once selected. With potential new fees and regulatory changes on the horizon, having trusted counsel matters more than ever. By working with us now, you can ensure your documentation is in order, your strategy is sound, and you’re ready to move quickly when the next H-1B lottery opens.