The selection process for H-1B visas, a non-immigrant visa category allowing U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, often involves a lottery system due to high demand exceeding the annual cap. When initial selections do not fill the quota, subsequent lotteries may occur. A “second round” selection following the initial lottery for the fiscal year 2025 would provide another opportunity for eligible petitions not chosen initially to be considered. This process aims to maximize the utilization of available visas within the yearly limit.
Additional selection rounds increase the chances for qualified individuals and petitioning companies to secure an H-1B visa for FY 2025. This impacts both the U.S. labor market, by potentially filling critical roles, and the lives of foreign professionals seeking employment opportunities in the United States. Historical data regarding previous years’ lottery timelines and selection rates can offer valuable context for understanding the potential outcomes and timelines for FY 2025’s second round.
