The H1B visa lottery system has become increasingly competitive in recent years, with application numbers far exceeding the annual cap of 85,000 visas. The probability of selection varies each year based on the total number of registrations submitted.
For the fiscal year 2024, USCIS received over 780,000 H1B registrations, resulting in an approximate selection probability of around 11-12% for each registration. This represents a significant decrease from previous years when selection probabilities were higher.
Several factors can influence an individual\“s H1B lottery chances. Applicants with advanced degrees from US institutions have a separate quota of 20,000 visas, which typically offers better odds than the regular cap. Multiple registrations from the same employer for one beneficiary do not increase selection probability due to USCIS\“s fraud prevention measures.
The selection process uses computer-generated random selection, making it impossible to predict or influence outcomes. Applicants should always have backup plans and consider alternative visa options given the low probability of selection in recent lottery cycles. |
