H-1B Visa Cap Reached for FY 2026 – Here’s What’s Next
USCIS has announced that the H-1B cap for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 has officially been reached during the initial registration period. Whether you’re an employer sponsoring talent or a prospective employee hoping to secure H-1B status, here’s what you should know about the next steps:
1. H-1B Cap Has Been Reached
USCIS has completed the lottery selections for both the 65,000 regular cap and the 20,000U.S. advanced degree cap. While the total number of registrations hasn’t been released yet, the announcement confirms how competitive this year’s process was.
2. Petition Filing Period Is Open
If your registration was selected, the H-1B petition must be filed between April 1 and June 30, 2025. Timely and accurate preparation of documents is essential to avoid delays or denials.
3. Possibility of Additional Lottery Selections
If USCIS does not receive enough H-1B cap petitions to meet the 85,000 cap, they may conduct one or more subsequent lottery selections. This could provide additional opportunities for individuals who were not selected in the initial lottery. If you were not selected, it’s important to stay updated on potential further rounds of selection.
4. The Importance of Timely and Complete Filing
If your registration was selected for the H-1B petition process, it’s important to submit your petition within the filing window. Delays or incomplete applications can result in missed opportunities or denials. Ensuring that all required documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted on time is critical to the success of the petition.
Didn’t Get Selected? There May Still Be Options
If your registration wasn’t selected in this lottery, there may still be viable alternatives based on your background, work history, and goals. These could include:
• Employment-based green card sponsorship through the PERM process
• O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability
• TN visa (for Canadian or Mexican citizens)
• STEM OPT extension (if eligible)
• L-1 transfer (for multinational companies)
If you’re exploring long-term employment in the U.S., we can help evaluate the best strategy moving forward.
Quick H-1B FAQs
Q: Does being selected in the lottery mean my H-1B is approved?
A: No—selection simply means you are eligible to file a petition. USCIS will review the petition and supporting documentation before making a final decision.
Q: Can I change employers after being selected?
A: You must file a new H-1B petition if you change employers, even after approval. Timing and strategy matter—always consult with immigration counsel before making a move.
Q: What happens if my OPT or workauthorization ends before October 1?’
A: Some individuals may be eligible for “cap-gap” extensions. Reach out to our team to see if this applies to your case.
Looking Ahead
Whether you’re navigating the petition process or considering long-term sponsorship strategies, staying proactive is key. Our team assists both employers and foreign national workers with H-1B filings, long-term planning, and ensuring each step is handled properly.
If you have questions about your next steps or how this may impact your hiring or immigration plans, we’re here to help. Schedule a fee case evaluation today.
Heckler Law Group is ready to guide your company through the detailed nature of U.S. immigration to ensure a smooth process. Get started by requesting a free case evaluation, and our team will contact you promptly.
This post is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should not act or rely on any information in this post without seeking the advice of a licensed immigration attorney.