FY 2026 H-1B Cap Recap: What Applicants Need to Know

Introduction:

If you're navigating the H-1B application process, you're likely asking:

• "Was my application selected?"
• "What are my chances this year?"
• "What should I do next?"

Let's break down the key details of the FY 2026 H-1B cap season to help you understand where things stand.

Understanding the H-1B Cap for FY 2026

The H-1B visa program has an annual cap of 85,000 visas: 65,000 under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 for applicants with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions. For FY 2026, USCIS received 343,981 eligible registrations, a decrease from the previous year's 470,342. According to USCIS, this reduction is attributed to the implementation of a beneficiary-centric selection process aimed at reducing multiple registrations for the same individual.

Selection Rates and What They Mean

Out of the 336,153 unique beneficiaries registered, USCIS selected 118,660 applications, resulting in a selection rate of approximately 35.3%. This is an increase from the previous year's selection rate of around 29%. The higher selection rate is partly due to the decrease in multiple registrations per beneficiary, thanks to the beneficiary-centric approach.

Next Steps for Selected Applicants

If your application is selected, your employer can file an H-1B cap-subject petition on your behalf. The filing window remains open for at least 90 days, until June 30, 2025. Ensure that your petition includes all necessary documentation, such as the selection notice and evidence of your qualifications.

What If You Weren't Selected?

If USCIS did not select you, there may still be hope. USCIS might conduct a second lottery if they do not receive enough petitions to meet the cap. However, this decision will not be made until after the initial filing period ends in June 2025. In the meantime, you should consider exploring alternative visa options or planning for the next application cycle.

Conclusion

The FY 2026 H-1B cap season has seen changes to increase fairness and reduce duplicate applications. With a higher selection rate and a more streamlined process, applicants have a more straightforward path forward. Stay informed and prepared, and consult with immigration professionals to navigate your next steps effectively.

For those on an H-4 visa, understanding your options is crucial. Our comprehensive H-4 Visa Guide provides essential information for H-1B spouses and dependents. Additionally, if you're looking to apply for an H-4 EAD, Immiva offers assistance to make the process smoother. Learn more about our H-4 EAD application support.

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