The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a second H-1B lottery for the fiscal year 2025, addressing unmet quotas for the regular cap category after the initial March 2024 lottery. Here’s what employers and applicants need to know about this second round and its potential implications.
Key Takeaways
- Why a Second Lottery?
Due to high demand and an insufficient number of petitions filed after the initial selection, the second lottery aims to meet the annual H-1B cap, allowing more U.S. employers to hire skilled foreign workers for specialty occupations. - Eligibility
Only previously unselected registrations from the initial round are eligible for this second lottery. This includes regular cap and master’s cap-eligible applicants, though no additional selection will be held for the master’s cap, as it has reached its limit. - Timeline and Notifications
USCIS has not set a specific date for the second lottery but expects it to be held soon. Those selected will be notified through their USCIS online accounts, which will include detailed instructions on the petition filing process. - Comparison to Previous Years
Similar to FY 2024, when USCIS held a second H-1B lottery due to increased demand, the need for a second round in 2025 reflects a continuous trend of rising H-1B applications. In 2023, the agency saw a 61% increase in applications for FY 2024, with 780,884 submissions. - Implications of the Second Lottery
- Filling Labor Gaps: Many sectors, particularly tech, rely heavily on H-1B talent. The second lottery offers a critical chance for companies to secure the skilled workers they need.
- Economic Impact: H-1B workers contribute to innovation, job creation, and the U.S. economy. By allowing additional skilled professionals into the workforce, this lottery supports economic growth.
- U.S. Competitiveness: The lottery bolsters the U.S. position as a top destination for global talent, fostering entrepreneurship and maintaining its competitive edge.
- HR and Corporate Strategies: Companies benefit from an extra chance to retain international talent, especially those considering or in the process of securing permanent residency (PERM) for employees.
Looking Forward
The second H-1B lottery highlights ongoing demand and may prompt further discussions on H-1B caps and program adjustments to better meet U.S. labor market needs. Employers and applicants should stay alert for announcements from USCIS to act swiftly if selected.
