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yuki_f1_to_h1b
Oct 18, 2025, 11:30 AM1 min read

H1B Lottery 2026 - When do registrations open?

H-1B
General

I'm currently on F1 OPT and my employer wants to sponsor me for H1B. Does anyone know when USCIS will open the FY2026 H1B lottery registration?

Based on last year:

  • Registration period: March 1-17, 2025
  • Lottery results: March 31, 2025

Questions:

  1. Is it similar timing expected for FY2026?
  2. My OPT expires in August 2026 - if I'm selected, will I get cap-gap?
  3. How many registrations did people submit last year? I heard about the fraud crackdown.

Also, my employer is a small startup (20 ...

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A
arjun_h1b_2024Oct 18, 2025, 12:45 PM

Based on the pattern, FY2027 lottery registration should open around March 1, 2026. Keep an eye on USCIS announcements starting February.

For cap-gap, yes you'll be covered if selected. Your status auto-extends until October 1 when H1B starts.

Small company approval rates depend more on documentation quality than company size these days. Make sure they prepare a strong petition!

M
minh_opt_stemOct 18, 2025, 2:00 PM

I'm in the same boat! OPT expiring next year and hoping for lottery luck. My employer said they'll register me but I'm nervous about the selection odds. Heard it's around 25-30% now?

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CreatedOct 18, 2025, 11:30 AM
Last ActivityOct 18, 2025, 2:00 PM

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yuki_f1_to_h1b

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