How do I get an H-1B visa after my OPT period ends?

The H-1B is the primary work visa for skilled foreign workers in the USA and the most common path for F-1 graduates after OPT. Here is how it works:

H-1B Lottery (Cap-Subject):
- USCIS receives far more H-1B petitions than available visas (65,000 regular + 20,000 for US master's degree holders)
- In recent years, USCIS has run an electronic registration lottery in March
- If selected, your employer files a full H-1B petition between April 1 and June 30
- If approved, H-1B status begins October 1 (start of the fiscal year)
- Lottery selection rates have been around 25–35% in recent years

What you need:
- A job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor you
- The role must qualify as a "specialty occupation" (requires at least a bachelor's in a specific field)
- Your employer pays the filing fees and, if required, the prevailing wage for your role and location

H-1B Cap-Exempt employers (no lottery required):
- Universities and affiliated non-profits
- Non-profit research organisations
- Government research organisations
Working for a cap-exempt employer is a very effective strategy — you can then transfer to a cap-subject employer later without going through the lottery.

OPT Cap-Gap:
If your OPT expires before October 1 but your H-1B is approved, the "cap-gap" provision automatically extends your F-1/OPT status to October 1, so you can keep working.

Alternative if not selected: Apply again next year, pursue a US master's degree for the 20,000 master's cap advantage, or look at O-1 or L-1 visas.