How many people apply for H-1B on average?

There is no fixed number. Demand for the H-1B shifts from year to year, driven by labor market trends and changes in immigration policy, so any specific figure quickly becomes outdated and misleading.

What can be said with confidence is that the H-1B is highly competitive. The number of registrations consistently exceeds the available slots by a wide margin, which is precisely why access goes through a lottery selection process before the employer can file a petition.

For those planning to compete, what matters most is not the total applicant count, but rather:

• preparing documentation early and thoroughly;
• securing an employer willing to sponsor and petition;
• following the registration windows and cycle rules directly from the official source.

Since the numbers and rules change each season, check the latest data at the official source (USCIS) and, if needed, consult an immigration specialist to plan your case without relying on promises of guaranteed outcomes.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.