US Selects 120,141 H-1B Visas for FY 2026 Amid Significant Decline in Applications

The landscape for skilled foreign workers in the U.S. is changing. For fiscal year 2026, the U.S. has selected 120,141 H-1B visa applications, amid rising scrutiny of work-based immigration and a notable decline in applications. This shift indicates a new era for employment-based immigration.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) selected these visas against the backdrop of fewer registrations and stricter policies. This trend raises questions about the future of skilled worker immigration.

Sharp Decline in H-1B Visa Registrations

USCIS received 358,737 H-1B visa registrations for FY 2026, but only 343,981 were eligible. This marks a 27% decrease from the previous year’s 470,342 eligible registrations. The decline in unique applicants is even more significant:

• FY 2026: 336,000 unique applicants.
• FY 2025: 423,000 unique applicants.
• FY 2024: Over 758,000 unique applicants.

This downward trend suggests waning interest or a more selective process due to new regulations.

Majority of Applicants Submit Just One Registration

Recent data reveals that 336,153 of the eligible registrations came from individuals who submitted only one entry. In contrast, just 7,828 applicants submitted multiple entries, indicating a sharp decline in bulk submissions. The average number of registrations per person decreased from 1.06 in FY 2025 to 1.01 in FY 2026, reflecting efforts to curb system abuse.

H-1B Lottery Selection Rate Falls to 35%

USCIS selected about 35% of eligible registrations through its lottery system for FY 2026. Despite fewer applicants, approximately 57,600 employers participated, up from 52,700 in FY 2025. The total selected included:

• 65,000 standard H-1B visas.
• 20,000 additional visas for applicants with U.S. master’s degrees or higher.

Big Tech Still Backs the H-1B Visa Despite Layoffs

Major tech companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and Tesla continue to utilize the H-1B program to recruit international talent. Although the tech sector has faced significant layoffs, these companies remain among the top sponsors of H-1B visas. This trend highlights the ongoing need for skilled workers in technology, finance, and education.

Trump’s Approach to Work Visas

Former President Donald Trump previously supported employment-based visas like the H-1B. However, the current administration seems more cautious. Critics, including the advocacy group U.S. Tech Workers, argue that approving many H-1Bs disregards recent tech layoffs and public concerns. They voiced their opinions on social media, stating:

“Despite mass tech layoffs and voter backlash—especially after the Christmas H-1B uproar—the Trump team stays hands-off: 120,141 NEW H-1Bs selected for FY 2026.” The true impact of policies on future H-1B demand will depend on upcoming changes to U.S. immigration regulations and job market conditions.

What This Means for H-1B Applicants

The reduced number of registrations and fewer multi-entry attempts indicate a more competitive H-1B visa process. Here are some key takeaways for skilled workers and sponsoring companies:

• Higher chances of selection for single-entry applicants.
• Increased scrutiny is likely to persist into FY 2027.
• Early preparation and robust documentation are essential.

Conclusion

As the FY 2026 H-1B visa lottery results unfold, it is evident that demand and participation have significantly decreased. With tightening immigration rules and increasing political pressure, the future of employment-based visas in the U.S. appears to be entering a more selective phase.

For skilled workers seeking opportunities in the U.S., meticulous preparation and timely applications are crucial.