USCIS Begins Rolling Out H-1B Visa Lottery Results: What to Do Next
With the FY 2026 H-1B lottery results now being released in phases, thousands of applicants are logging into their USCIS accounts to check their status. Whether you’ve been selected or are still waiting, understanding what each status means—and what actions to take—is essential for staying on track.
What Each USCIS Status Means
When you log in to your USCIS account, your registration will display one of the following statuses. These indicate your standing in the lottery and the next steps required.
- Submitted: Your registration is still under consideration. If the visa cap isn’t met, there could be additional selection rounds later. Keep monitoring updates.
- Selected: You’re eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition. The filing period begins on April 1, 2025—prepare accordingly.
- Not Selected: Your entry wasn’t picked. However, you can still explore alternative pathways like Day 1 CPT, employer-sponsored green cards, or reapplying next year.
- Denied – Duplicate Registration: USCIS disqualified your entry due to multiple registrations from the same employer for the same beneficiary.
- Invalidated – Failed Payment: Your registration was canceled due to an unsuccessful payment transaction.
- Deleted: Your registration was removed from the system and is no longer being considered.
- Processing Submission: Your entry is still under review. This often happens during batch announcements, so check for updates regularly.
For Those Selected: Filing Opens April 1
If you’ve been selected in the H-1B lottery, here’s what to do next:
- Submit Form I-129: Ensure you use the updated FY 2026 edition of the form.
- Pay the Correct Fees: The new filing fees take effect from April 1, 2025—check the revised structure.
- Send Your Petition to the Right Location: USCIS has designated new lockbox facilities for H-1B cap filings. Service centers will no longer accept paper petitions.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Errors in the form edition, payment amount, or mailing address may lead to delays or outright rejection.
Key Changes for FY 2026 Applicants
- Higher Filing Fees: Starting April 1, 2025, USCIS has increased H-1B filing costs. Ensure you pay the correct updated fees.
- New Mailing Locations: All cap-subject petitions must be sent to designated USCIS lockbox facilities. Service centers will no longer accept applications.
- Receipt Notice Delays: Due to high submission volume, Form I-797 Notices of Action may take longer to arrive. If you don’t receive a notice within 30 days, contact USCIS.
Checklist for Next Steps
- Log in to USCIS and check your registration status.
- If selected, begin preparing your petition with all required documents.
- Use the correct Form I-129 edition and pay the revised fees.
- Verify the mailing address to ensure your petition is sent to the right location.
- Track your shipment and watch for your receipt notice to confirm USCIS processing.
Taking these steps will help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your H-1B petition on track. Stay updated on any USCIS announcements to ensure a smooth process.
