The outcome of a subsequent selection process for H-1B visas for fiscal year 2025, conducted after an initial lottery, determines which additional petitions for these highly sought-after work permits are approved. This second selection is typically necessary when the initial lottery receives more applications than available visa quotas. For example, if the initial selection doesn’t fulfill the annual cap, a second lottery is conducted from the remaining eligible applications.
A second lottery offers another opportunity for U.S. employers to secure highly skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations, helping to address potential labor shortages. This process ensures a fair and transparent allocation of limited visa resources and potentially contributes to economic growth by facilitating the entry of qualified professionals. Historically, the demand for H-1B visas has frequently exceeded the supply, necessitating multiple selection processes in various fiscal years.