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Is there an annual limit for H-1B?

The H-1B visa has an annual limit of 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 slots for master's or doctorate holders from American universities, and there may be a lottery due to high demand.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 9, 2025
2 min read
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The H-1B visa is intended for professionals with specialized degrees who seek to work in the United States, and its popularity leads many to question whether there is an annual cap for this type of visa. Indeed, there is an annual cap on the issuance of H-1B visas.

Currently, the United States Congress sets a limit of 65,000 visas for general professionals, with an additional 20,000 visas available for those who hold a master’s degree or higher from U.S. universities. These numbers may vary on specific occasions, as exceptions exist for certain institutions and situations, such as research institutions, universities, and non-profit organizations, which are exempt from the annual cap.

It is important to emphasize that, given the high demand for this type of visa, the selection process may include a lottery system for applications that exceed the number of available slots. Therefore, it is crucial that interested professionals strictly follow the procedures and deadlines established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Always remember to comply with U.S. immigration laws and seek guidance from reliable sources and specialized professionals, avoiding scams or marketing campaigns that guarantee foolproof results. A cautious and well-informed approach is essential to navigate the process safely and in accordance with current regulations.

Learn more about H-1B Visa

Initial validity
3 years
Extension
Up to 6 years total
Annual cap
85,000 visas
Processing
6-12 months
All about H-1B Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

Is there an annual limit for H-1B?

The H-1B visa has an annual limit of 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 slots for master's or doctorate holders from American universities, and there may be a lottery due to high demand.

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