Why 2026 Could Be Your Best Chance Ever at the H-1B Lottery

This might be THE BEST YEAR to apply for an H-1B visa in over a decade.

I know that sounds unbelievable given the current immigration climate. But the math actually works in your favor.

Just 3 years ago, there were 780,884 applications for 85,000 H-1B spots. The odds of being selected were 15 to 25 percent, depending on whether the applicant had a Master's Degree (higher chances). Applicants were double-dipping by applying through multiple employers to get extra chances at the lottery.

Last year, USCIS changed the rules: only one lottery entry per passport. Even if the applicant had multiple job offer, he or she would still only get on entry into the lottery. This actually had a huge impact on the lottery process.

The result:

Last year, approximately 80% of our clients were selected in the H-1B the lottery. That's 4 out of 5—compared to 1 in 4 just a few years prior.

This year could be even better. Here's why:

The new $100,000 fee will eliminate applicants who are seeking new positions from outside the country. Many other applicants and employers are too scared to even look into the process, given the headlines. And the newest rule—set to take effect in February—will weight selections based on salary.

Here's how the salary weighting works:

Your position will be assigned a wage level from one to four, based on the job duties, experience required, and location. A level four salary essentially gives you four chances in the lottery. Level one gives you one chance.

But here's the thing—last year you only had one chance anyway. So if you're at level one, you're no worse off. And if you're at level two, three, or four, your odds just improved significantly.

If you have employees present in the USA on OPT, J-1, or another visas, and you want to continue their employment, NOW is the time to evaluate whether H-1B registration makes sense before the March deadline.

Are you planning to enter the H-1B lottery this year? What's holding you back?

If you need help assessing your options before registration opens, Call (949) 940-6725, or book a consultation online to speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.

DISCLAIMER: This post does not constitute legal advice, or make any guarantees as to a potential outcome. Consult with a qualified, licensed immigration attorney about the facts of your case before proceeding.