Is there an annual H-1B cap?

Yes, there is an annual cap for most H-1B visas. This limit is set by law and is precisely what makes the process competitive, since demand tends to be much higher than the number of slots available in each cycle.

A few aspects help explain how the cap works:

• there is a general quota and an additional allocation reserved for those who have completed an advanced graduate degree at a U.S. institution;
• certain employers, such as universities and nonprofit research organizations, are typically exempt from the cap;
• when the number of registrations exceeds available slots, selection usually goes through a lottery.

Because the exact quota figures and registration rules are set by law and can change from one year to the next, this is the kind of information worth verifying at the official source rather than assuming a fixed number.

To check the current limits and deadlines, consult the USCIS or a specialist before planning your application.

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.