The highly anticipated H-1B second lottery for 2025 has commenced, bringing hope to thousands of aspiring professionals seeking to secure their spot in the United States’ coveted skilled worker program. After a nail-biting first lottery draw that saw only a fraction of applications selected, the second lottery offers a second chance for those who remained unsuccessful. This comes as welcome news amidst the ongoing global talent shortage that has made skilled professionals highly sought-after.
The H-1B visa program, which is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), allows employers to sponsor foreign workers with specialized skills for positions that require at least a bachelor’s degree. The program is highly competitive, with the number of applications far exceeding the available visas each year. As such, the lottery system plays a crucial role in determining which applications are selected for further processing.
This year’s second lottery, which opened on July 18th, will run until August 4th, 2023. During this period, eligible employers can submit H-1B petitions on behalf of foreign workers who meet the program’s requirements. The USCIS will then conduct a random lottery draw to select a limited number of petitions for further processing. Those petitions that are selected will be issued H-1B visas, allowing the foreign workers to begin working in the United States starting on October 1st, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the H-1B Visa Second Lottery
1. Cap Exemption
- Individuals qualifying for cap exemptions under the H-1B visa category are eligible for the second lottery. These exemptions include:
- Beneficiaries with a US master’s or higher degree
- Non-profit organizations and government research institutions
- Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs) with US government agencies
2. First-Time Applicants
- Individuals who have never been selected in a previous H-1B lottery are eligible for the second lottery. This includes those who:
- Are applying for an H-1B visa for the first time
- Have been denied an H-1B visa in the past
- Have had their H-1B visa canceled or revoked
3. Additional Requirements
- In addition to the above eligibility criteria, applicants must also meet the following requirements:
- Have a valid job offer from a US employer
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialty occupation
- Meet the prevailing wage requirements for their occupation
| Eligibility Category |
Eligibility Criteria |
| Cap-Exempt Individuals |
US master’s or higher degree, Non-profit organizations, Government research institutions, CRADAs |
| First-Time Applicants |
Never selected in an H-1B lottery, Denied H-1B in the past, H-1B canceled or revoked |
| Additional Requirements |
Valid job offer, Bachelor’s degree or higher, Prevailing wage requirements |
Application Process and Timeline for the Second Lottery
The H1B lottery is a highly competitive process, and the second lottery is no exception. To increase your chances of success, it is important to understand the application process and timeline. Here is a detailed breakdown:
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the second H1B lottery, you must meet the following requirements:
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S.-accredited institution.
- Be working in a specialty occupation that requires at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer that is willing to sponsor your H1B visa.
Application Process
The second H1B lottery application process is typically open from late March to mid-April. You must submit the following documents to USCIS:
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
- Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative
- Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing (optional)
- Supporting documentation, such as your resume, transcripts, and job offer letter
Timeline
| Event |
Timeline |
| Lottery Application Period |
Late March – Mid-April |
| Lottery Selection Date |
Early May |
| Notifications Sent to Selected Applicants |
Mid-May |
| H1B Visa Processing Begins |
June |
| H1B Visa Start Date |
October 1 |
It is important to note that the timeline may vary slightly from year to year. Please check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.
Selection Process and Results Announcement
Selection Timeline
The H-1B second lottery 2025 will have a similar timeline to previous years. The application window is expected to open in April 2025. The lottery will be conducted shortly after the window closes, with results announced in May 2025. The selected applicants will then have until September 2025 to file their petitions for employment-based visas.
Registration and Application
As in previous years, the H-1B second lottery will be conducted electronically through the USCIS website. Companies and individuals interested in sponsoring or applying for H-1B visas can register during the designated period.
Lottery Process
The lottery process is designed to provide an equal opportunity for all eligible applicants. All registrations received during the registration period will be entered into a random selection process. Companies and individuals selected in the lottery will be notified and invited to submit formal applications for H-1B visas.
Results Announcement
The results of the H-1B second lottery will be announced on the USCIS website in May 2025. Selected applicants will receive an email notification and can check the results online using their case numbers. It’s important to note that the results are typically released in batches, and it may take several days for all results to be available.
| Timeline |
Action |
| April 2025 |
Application window opens |
| May 2025 |
Lottery conducted and results announced |
| September 2025 |
Deadline for selected applicants to file petitions |
H-1B Visa Cap and Distribution for the Second Lottery
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. The H-1B quota for the second lottery is 65,000. Of this total, 20,000 visas are reserved for those with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.
The distribution of H-1B visas for the second lottery is as follows:
Advanced Degree Exemptions
USCIS will conduct a lottery to select 20,000 out of 27,000 beneficiaries applying for H-1B visas under the advanced degree exemption for those who hold a master’s or higher degree from a U.S. college or university. If selected, the beneficiaries will be exempt from the cap.
Regular Cap
Once the advanced degree exemption beneficiaries are selected, a second lottery will be conducted to select 45,000 beneficiaries from the remaining 230,000 entries subject to the regular cap.
Additional Information
If you are selected in the lottery, you will receive a notification from USCIS with further instructions. If you have previously been granted an H-1B visa, you can file an extension request with USCIS.
| Visa Type |
Number of Visas |
| Regular Cap |
45,000 |
| Advanced Degree Exemptions |
20,000 |
| Total |
65,000 |
Impact of the H-1B Visa Second Lottery on Employers
The implementation of a second H-1B visa lottery will have significant implications for employers:
Increased Employer Flexibility
The second lottery provides employers with an additional opportunity to hire foreign workers with highly specialized skills. This expanded talent pool allows employers to fill critical positions more quickly and effectively.
Enhanced Innovation and Competitiveness
The influx of skilled workers through the second lottery can drive innovation and boost the competitiveness of U.S. businesses. These professionals bring diverse perspectives and cutting-edge knowledge, contributing to technological advancements and economic growth.
Reduced Hiring Costs
The second lottery creates a larger supply of H-1B visa recipients, which may lead to lower salaries and reduced hiring costs for employers. This could incentivize companies to hire more foreign workers to meet their labor demands.
Increased Competition for Talent
The addition of a second lottery will intensify competition among employers seeking H-1B visa holders. Companies will need to develop competitive compensation packages and offer attractive benefits to attract and retain the best candidates.
Administrative Burden and Compliance
The second lottery will increase the administrative burden and compliance requirements for employers. They will need to navigate the complex application process and ensure compliance with the new rules and regulations.
Potential Increased H-1B Dependency
The availability of a second H-1B visa lottery may lead to increased reliance on foreign workers by U.S. businesses. Employers should carefully consider their long-term hiring strategies to avoid overreliance on H-1B visas and ensure a diverse and sustainable workforce.
| Lottery Round |
Application Period |
Notification Date |
Visa Allocation |
| First |
March 1 – 18, 2023 |
March 31, 2023 |
85,000 |
| Second |
April 1 – 15, 2023 |
April 25, 2023 |
20,000 |
Strategies for Maximizing Success in the Second Lottery
1. Submit a Strong Application
Craft a well-written, tailored resume and cover letter that highlights your skills, experience, and qualifications. Proofread carefully for any errors before submitting.
2. Acquire Essential Endorsements
Secure valid endorsements from an employer willing to sponsor your H-1B petition. The employer’s support and financial stability are crucial for your application’s success.
3. Choose a High-Demand Occupation
Consider targeting occupations with a high demand in the U.S. labor market. This increases the likelihood of your application being selected in the lottery.
4. Apply Early
Submit your application on the first day the second lottery window opens. Earlier applications have a better chance of being entered into the lottery draw.
5. Take Advantage of Dual Filings
If you are eligible, consider filing for both the first and second lotteries. This increases your overall chances of securing an H-1B visa.
6. Explore Alternative Options
Consider alternative visa categories, such as the O-1 or TN visa, if you do not qualify for an H-1B visa.
7. Consulting with an Immigration Expert
Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney or consultant can be invaluable. They can provide personalized advice, assist with application preparation, and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Additional Tips for Maximizing Success in the Second Lottery
- Ensure your specialty occupation requires specialized knowledge.
- Research and target employers with a proven track record of hiring H-1B workers.
- Network with professionals in your field and attend industry events.
- Consider filing a petition with a U.S. employer that has a pre-approved labor certification.
- Be prepared to provide additional documentation to support your application.
- Follow up with USCIS regularly and respond promptly to any requests for further information.
Legal Considerations
In addition to the H-1B lottery requirements, employers must also consider the following legal considerations:
- Wage requirements: Employers must pay H-1B workers the prevailing wage for their occupation and geographic location.
- Employer-employee relationship: Employers must maintain a bona fide employer-employee relationship with H-1B workers.
- Non-displacement of U.S. workers: Employers must not displace qualified U.S. workers to hire H-1B workers.
- Training and recruitment: Employers must make efforts to train and recruit U.S. workers before hiring H-1B workers.
- Anti-discrimination laws: Employers cannot discriminate against H-1B workers based on their national origin, race, or other protected characteristics.
- I-9 compliance: Employers must complete and retain Form I-9 for all H-1B workers to verify their identity and work authorization.
Common Pitfalls
Employers should be aware of the following common pitfalls when filing H-1B petitions:
- Incorrect documentation: Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation with the H-1B petition can delay or deny the petition.
- Inadequate wage offer: Offering a wage below the prevailing wage can lead to denial of the H-1B petition.
- Lack of employee-employer relationship: Failing to establish a bona fide employer-employee relationship can result in the H-1B petition being denied.
- Non-displacement of U.S. workers: Employers must demonstrate that hiring an H-1B worker will not displace qualified U.S. workers.
- Training and recruitment: Employers must make sufficient efforts to train and recruit U.S. workers before hiring H-1B workers.
- Anti-discrimination laws: Employers must ensure that they do not discriminate against H-1B workers based on their national origin, race, or other protected characteristics.
- I-9 compliance: Failure to complete and retain Form I-9 for all H-1B workers can result in fines and penalties.
- Timely filing: H-1B petitions must be filed within the applicable filing period. Late-filed petitions may be rejected.
I-9 Compliance
Employers should ensure that they complete and retain Form I-9 for all H-1B workers within three business days of hire. Form I-9 is used to verify the identity and work authorization of all U.S. citizens and non-citizens working in the United States. Failure to complete and retain Form I-9 for all H-1B workers can result in fines and penalties.
| Document |
Purpose |
| List A Document |
Establish identity |
| List B Document |
Establish identity and employment authorization |
| List C Document |
Establish identity and work authorization |
** TN Visa**
The TN visa is available to citizens of Canada and Mexico who are seeking to work in certain professions in the United States. The TN visa is similar to the H-1B visa, but it has a few key differences. First, the TN visa does not require a prevailing wage determination. Second, the TN visa is not subject to the H-1B cap. Third, the TN visa can be renewed indefinitely.
**L-1 Visa**
The L-1 visa is available to executives, managers, and specialized knowledge professionals who are employed by a company with a presence in both the United States and another country. The L-1 visa allows these employees to transfer to the United States to work for the same company.
**E-3 Visa**
The E-3 visa is available to citizens of Australia who are seeking to work in certain professions in the United States. The E-3 visa is similar to the H-1B visa, but it has a few key differences. First, the E-3 visa does not require a prevailing wage determination. Second, the E-3 visa is not subject to the H-1B cap. Third, the E-3 visa is valid for two years and can be renewed indefinitely.
**EB-1 Green Card**
The EB-1 green card is available to foreign nationals who are recognized as being among the world’s most exceptional in their field. The EB-1 green card does not require a job offer or sponsorship from an employer.
**EB-2 Green Card**
The EB-2 green card is available to foreign nationals who have exceptional abilities in the sciences, arts, or business. The EB-2 green card also requires a job offer and sponsorship from an employer.
**EB-3 Green Card**
The EB-3 green card is available to foreign nationals who have skills in areas that are in short supply in the United States. The EB-3 green card also requires a job offer and sponsorship from an employer.
**EB-4 Green Card**
The EB-4 green card is available to foreign nationals who are religious workers or special immigrants. The EB-4 green card does not require a job offer or sponsorship from an employer.
**EB-5 Green Card**
The EB-5 green card is available to foreign nationals who invest a certain amount of money in the United States and create jobs for American workers. The EB-5 green card does not require a job offer or sponsorship from an employer.
**Other Options**
In addition to the visas and green cards listed above, there are also a number of other options available to foreign professionals who wish to work in the United States. These options include:
- OPT (Optional Practical Training)
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- STEM OPT
- Asylum
- Refugee status
| Visa Type |
Duration |
Can lead to Green Card? |
| H-1B |
Up to 6 years |
Yes |
| L-1 |
Up to 7 years |
Yes |
| TN |
Up to 3 years |
No |
| E-3 |
Up to 2 years |
Yes |
Projections and Future Trends for H-1B Visa Lottery
Demand for H-1B Visas
The demand for H-1B visas remains high, with the annual cap consistently being reached within a few days of opening. This demand is driven by the need for skilled workers in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Lottery Selection Process
The H-1B lottery selection process is highly competitive, with only a small percentage of applicants being selected. The lottery process is random, but certain factors, such as having a master’s degree or working in a high-demand occupation, can increase the chances of selection.
Legislative Changes
Congress is considering several legislative changes that could impact the H-1B visa program. These changes include increasing the cap on H-1B visas and implementing stricter wage requirements.
Impact on the Economy
The H-1B visa program has a significant impact on the U.S. economy. H-1B visa holders contribute to economic growth, innovation, and job creation. However, there are also concerns that the program could displace American workers.
Future Trends
- The demand for H-1B visas is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.
- The lottery selection process will likely remain competitive.
- Congress may make changes to the H-1B visa program, including increasing the cap or implementing stricter wage requirements.
- The impact of the H-1B visa program on the U.S. economy is likely to be positive.
- The H-1B visa program is likely to continue to be a valuable tool for employers to access skilled workers.
- There may be increased scrutiny of H-1B visa holders to ensure that they are not displacing American workers.
- The H-1B visa program may be used to attract and retain foreign talent in the United States.
- The H-1B visa program may be expanded to include more occupations.
- The H-1B visa program may be made more accessible to small businesses.
- The H-1B visa program may be made more user-friendly for employers and applicants.
H-1B Visa Lottery Selection Statistics
2020-2023
| Year |
Total Applicants |
Selected Applicants |
Selection Rate |
| 2020 |
274,328 |
85,000 |
30.99% |
| 2021 |
308,613 |
85,000 |
27.56% |
| 2022 |
483,927 |
85,000 |
17.55% |
| 2023 |
401,098 |
85,000 |
21.19% |
H1B Second Lottery 2025: Latest News and Updates
The H1B second lottery for 2025 is scheduled to be held on March 8th, 2025. The second lottery is conducted if there are any remaining H1B visas after the first lottery. Applicants who were not selected in the first lottery will be eligible to participate in the second lottery.
The registration period for the second lottery will open on February 1st, 2025 and close on February 14th, 2025. Applicants who are interested in participating in the lottery must submit their applications during this time frame. Late applications will not be accepted.
The H1B second lottery is a random lottery, and there is no guarantee that any applicant will be selected. However, applicants who have strong qualifications and a competitive resume may have a better chance of being selected.
People Also Ask About H1B Second Lottery 2025 Latest News
What are the eligibility requirements for the H1B second lottery?
To be eligible for the H1B second lottery, applicants must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S. college or university, or an equivalent degree from a foreign college or university.
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer that requires the applicant to work in a specialty occupation.
- Not have been selected in the first H1B lottery.
What is the filing period for the H1B second lottery?
The filing period for the H1B second lottery is from February 1st, 2025 to February 14th, 2025.
What are the chances of being selected in the H1B second lottery?
The chances of being selected in the H1B second lottery vary depending on the number of applicants and the number of remaining visas. In general, the chances of being selected are lower than in the first lottery.
