With the rising demand for H-1B visas, the lottery is becoming more competitive. What backup plans do you have if you don’t get selected? Are you considering Canada, O-1, Day 1 CPT, or something else? Let’s share ideas and help each other navigate this tricky situation.
Definitely considering CPT for the short-term to buy time because it’s the option with the lowest barrier.
Great topic, @ultra2 — definitely something a lot of folks are quietly stressing over.
Backup plans I’ve seen students and professionals consider include:
- Day 1 CPT (short-term safety net, especially for those needing time to reapply or job hunt)
- Canada PGWP programs — especially attractive for tech professionals looking for PR pathways
- O-1 visa for folks with strong achievements in STEM or creative fields (takes prep but doable!)
- F-1 to self-sponsored H-1B through a startup — now more realistic with the 2025 reforms
- Remote work for a U.S. company from abroad, then trying for H-1B again next year
It’s tough out there, but having a Plan B (or C) can really take the edge off the lottery stress.
– Jill
even though H1B selected rate is higher this year, but the lucky one is not me still…
Already applied for a Day 1 CPT program… felt like the only realistic option to stay and keep working. Honestly though, it’s kinda discouraging. O1 seems like a long shot, and relocating is not really on the table for me right now. Just trying to take things as they come. 