Selected in the FY 2027 H-1B Lottery… but haven’t filed your petition yet?
You’re not alone, and this is where many candidates lose their chance. Getting selected in the H-1B lottery is just Step 1. If your petition isn’t filed correctly and on time, the opportunity can disappear.
Every year, we see:
- Last-minute filings
- Weak job descriptions
- RFEs that could’ve been avoided
- Petitions denied despite lottery selection
If you’ve been selected, here’s what you should be doing right now:
- Finalizing your case strategy
- Ensuring LCA and wage level alignment
- Preparing strong documentation
- Identifying risks early (Level 1 wages, third-party placement, degree mismatch)
The difference between approval and RFE/denial often comes down to how well your case is prepared before filing. The filing window is limited. If your petition is still not filed, this is the time to act.
We work closely with H-1B candidates and employers to:
- Build strong, decision-ready petitions
- Minimize RFEs with a proactive strategy
- Navigate complex cases with clarity
❓ FAQ – H1B Petition Filing After Lottery Selection
Q1: What happens after being selected in the H1B lottery?
After selection, your employer must file a complete H1B petition within the USCIS filing window. Selection alone does not grant a visa or work authorization.
Q2: What is the deadline to file the H1B petition after selection?
USCIS typically provides a 90-day filing window. Missing this deadline means losing your H1B opportunity for that fiscal year.
Q3: Can I lose my H1B after being selected in the lottery?
Yes. If the petition is not filed on time, contains errors, or lacks proper documentation, it can be denied—even after selection.
Q4: What are the common reasons for H1B RFEs (Requests for Evidence)?
Common triggers include weak job descriptions, Level 1 wage issues, employer-employee relationship concerns, third-party placements, and degree mismatch.
Q5: How can I avoid an H1B RFE or denial?
Ensure strong documentation, proper LCA alignment, a well-defined job role, and a strategy that addresses potential risks before filing.
Q6: Can I change employers after being selected in the H1B lottery?
No. The selection is tied to the employer who registered you. Only that employer can file your petition.
Q7: Is premium processing recommended for H1B petitions?
Premium processing can speed up the decision timeline, but it does not reduce the chances of RFE or approval. Petition quality remains critical.
Q8: What if my H1B petition is not filed within the deadline?
You will lose your selection for that fiscal year and must re-enter the lottery in the next cycle.
Q9: Can multiple employers file H1B petitions after selection?
No. Only the employer who submitted your registration and got selected can file the petition.
Q10: When can I start working if my H1B is approved?
Typically, employment begins on October 1 of the fiscal year, unless you qualify for cap-gap or other provisions.
If you or your employer needs help filing your H-1B petition, feel free to reach out. Feel free to book an appointment here if your case is time sensitive.
Let’s make sure your selection turns into an approval.
