Hosted By: Nicole Gunara, Principal Attorney, Manifest Law | Date: July 24, 2025
If you didn’t get selected in this year’s H-1B lottery, you’re far from alone—and you’re not out of options.
In this live webinar from July 24, 2025, Manifest Law’s Principal Attorney Nicole Gunara walked through practical, strategic pathways to stay and work in the U.S. even if your H-1B lottery application wasn’t selected. From talent-based visas like the O-1 to smart uses of graduate programs and employer structures, Nicole emphasized the importance of acting early and diversifying your immigration game plan.
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Why A Second Lottery Round Is Unlikely This Year
On July 18, USCIS confirmed the cap for H-1Bs has been met—and unlike in previous years, there’s no strong indication of a second round.
Historically, second rounds occurred when applicants declined to follow through, but now, most selected candidates complete their filings. That means: if you weren’t picked, it’s time to act.
The O-1 Visa As an H-1B Alternative
The O-1 visa for individuals with “extraordinary ability” is one of the most powerful alternatives to the H-1B visa. It’s not just for celebrities—it’s for professionals with documented impact, like engineers, designers, researchers, founders, and creatives.
You only need to meet three of eight O-1 visa criteria (press, awards, judging, leadership roles, etc.). And even if you don’t yet qualify, Nicole shared actionable ways to build your eligibility—like publishing in trade journals, getting quoted in niche media, or peer reviewing academic work
Want to see if you're eligible for the O-1 visa?
Take our O-1 visa eligibility quiz to find out in minutes!
More H-1B Alternatives: CPT, J-1, and Country-Specific Visas
CPT-Eligible Graduate Programs: If your F-1 or OPT is expiring, a Day 1 CPT-enabled master’s program can help you stay in status while continuing to work. Just make sure to document your studies carefully to avoid travel and compliance risks.
J-1 Research Scholars & Specialists: If your work involves research or specialized knowledge, the J-1 visa may offer a 1–5 year path—even at private companies.
Recent Webinars to Explore
May 29, 2025
Discuss the visa options of interest to you
General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options
Information on Manifest fees, terms and process
Full clarity and transparency every step along the way
