Still trying to win the H-1B lottery? Wait for the war, you’ll get a green card faster

Pillow Talk
1

I’ve given up.

My OPT is ending soon. I didn’t get picked in the H-1B lottery. Every job asks if I need sponsorship, and the answer kills the interview.

Meanwhile, I see people around me studying asylum policies. Why?

  • China might start a war over Taiwan
  • India and Pakistan are bombing each other
  • The U.S. is deploying defense systems at home like it’s World War III

Let’s be honest: If real war breaks out, who the hell is still applying through H-1B?

You’ll see asylum applications spike overnight.
War refugees get EADs, then status, then green cards—faster than you can say “premium processing.”

Remember what happened with Russians during the Ukraine war?
Many weren’t even real “refugees,” but they got in under asylum or TPS.
Now they’re working, legal, and waiting for status.

Meanwhile, we’re here:

  • Grinding Leetcode
  • Praying for interviews
  • Working unpaid internships
  • Watching our visa clock tick down

When war breaks out, those refugees flying in might become U.S. citizens before we even get an I-140 approved.

Not a joke. Not a conspiracy.
It’s just how immigration is evolving now.

2

It’s definitely valid to feel the situation is unfair. I also feel frustrated and hopeless at times, but I’ve been working through those moments by reminding myself that it does work out for people. If it’s no longer worth it to you, then it’s great you were able to recognize and admit that to yourself. However, if you want to keep trying a little longer, I’m sure plenty of people will provide suggestions and support here. Hoping the best for you no matter what you decide!

3

Hang in there, I know how brutal it feels. My OPT is ending soon too, and I’ve started looking at cap-exempt H1B options or seeing if I qualify for an O‑1 visa. It might be worth talking to an immigration attorney to see what other options you didn’t think of.