Options for H1B Applicants Not Selected in the Second Lottery

Heyy y’all, happy Hump Day! As we predicted in our previous blog, a second round of the H1B lottery should come in late July or early August, based on reliable sources and statistics. While waiting for the result, come and look at the Plan Bs you could choose if you are not selected again in the second draw. Preparing for the worst and hoping for the best!

Options for Applicants Who Were Not Selected

If you weren't selected in the first round of the H1B visa lottery, don't worry; options are still available. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. O-1 Visa

If your H1B lottery application is not selected, the O-1 visa is a viable alternative. It is intended for foreign nationals who exhibit extraordinary ability in science, education, business, the arts, and athletics or have achieved outstanding recognition in the entertainment industry.

2. Cap-Exempt H1B Jobs

Cap-exempt employment is an option for individuals not selected in the H1B lottery. Institutions of higher education, affiliated nonprofit entities, and nonprofit or governmental research organizations are exempt from the cap and can file H1B petitions throughout the year. If USCIS approves their H1B petition, you can commence employment with the employer.

3. L-1 Visa

If you work for a company with an office in the US, you may be eligible to apply for an L-1 visa. To qualify, you must have worked for the company in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position for at least 1 year within the last 3 years. Additionally, the L-1 visa can be used to establish an affiliated office in the US if your foreign company does not currently have a presence there.

4. Enroll in Day 1 CPT Universities to Continue Studying and Working on an F1 Visa

Day 1 CPT universities can provide CPT authorizations and allow you to work while studying in the US. OPT and CPT are legal-to-work authorizations recognized by the USCIS. This is one of the most popular options if you are not eligible for O1 and L1 visa and don't want to change your career to a cap-exempt h1b job.

Want to learn more about Day 1 CPT Universities? Check out our website and contact us for free and customized consultation!