In my previous blog, I gave some general information about the H-1B application process and deadlines. The most important deadline is rapidly approaching – March 18th. If you miss the March 18th lottery application deadline, you must wait until March 2023 to enter the H-1B lottery.
Lottery Selections
Another important date is March 31st. This is when USCIS will announce the lottery winners. Winners will be notified through their myUSCIS account. Under the law, USCIS must approve 85,000 qualified applications. Last year, they did not meet this threshold in the original lottery. Therefore, USCIS conducted 2 additional lotteries.
Because we do not know how many qualified applicants entered the lottery this year, it is uncertain if there will be additional lotteries. If you are not selected in round 1, perhaps you will be in subsequent rounds. Obviously, this is only if there are subsequent rounds. And again, you will not be considered for potential subsequent rounds if you do not enter the lottery by March 18.
What Happens if I Miss the Deadline or I’m Not Selected?
I repeat – if you miss the March 18th deadline, you cannot apply again for an H-1B visa until next year. There are no exceptions. None.
However, you are not selected, you may have alternative options. For example, you may be able to go back to school in the U.S. and reapply next year. Or perhaps, you do not qualify for H-1B but do for other visa categories. Because every situation is unique, and there are so many factors that determine eligibility, do not give up hope with an H-1B denial. Call me. We can explore your circumstances and look for alternatives. After all, it is my job to look under every rock for you.
