Missed the H-1B Lottery? Here Are 8 Other US Visa Options for Indian Workers

The results for the 2026 H-1B visa lottery have been released, and as in previous years, demand has far exceeded the available slots. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers 65,000 visas under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 for applicants with a U.S. master’s degree. However, many hopeful applicants have been left without a visa.

Hope for a Second Lottery Round

Those who weren’t selected in the initial draw still have a chance, as USCIS may conduct a second lottery if sufficient applications are not processed. If that does not happen, applicants will need to try again next year or explore alternative visa options.

Alternative Visa Options for Rejected Applicants

Experts suggest several alternative routes for those who missed out on the H-1B lottery.

1. L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa

For employees of multinational companies relocating to their company’s U.S. office.

2. O-1 Visa for Extraordinary Ability

Available for individuals with exceptional achievements in fields such as science, business, or the arts.

3. TN Visa for Canadian and Mexican Nationals

This visa applies to Canadian and Mexican citizens under the USMCA agreement.

4. E-2 Investor Visa

Applicable to nationals of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount in a U.S. business. While India is not on the treaty list, Indian citizens with second citizenship in an eligible country can apply.

• Costs:
  • Form I-129: $460
  • DS-160: $205

5. H-3 Trainee Visa

Designed for foreign nationals undergoing training not available in their home country.

• Costs:
  • Form I-129: $460
  • DS-160: $190

6. F-1 Student Visa with OPT and STEM OPT Extension

F-1 visa holders can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. Those in STEM fields can extend their OPT by 24 months.

• Costs:
  • SEVIS Fee: $350
  • DS-160: $185

7. Cap-Exempt H-1B Visas

Certain employers, including universities, research organizations, and non-profits, are not subject to the H-1B cap.

8. EB-2 and EB-3 Green Card Sponsorship

Employers can sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency under the EB-2 and EB-3 green card categories.

US Officials Warn Employers Against Discrimination

Amid rising immigration concerns, U.S. officials have warned employers against discriminatory hiring practices. EEOC Commissioner Andrea Lucas emphasized that some employers prioritize migrant workers and visa holders over American citizens, violating federal employment laws.

“The EEOC is putting employers and other covered entities on notice: if you are part of the pipeline contributing to our immigration crisis or abusing our legal immigration system via illegal preferences against American workers, you must stop. The law applies to you, and you are not above the law,” Lucas stated.

Conclusion

While the H-1B visa lottery remains highly competitive, rejected applicants have several pathways to explore. Whether through cap-exempt jobs, alternative visas, or employer-sponsored green cards, there are multiple avenues for skilled professionals to work in the U.S.