The registration for the H-1B visa for jobs in the United States has commenced today, March 7, 2025, and will remain open until March 24, 2025.
The H-1B visa enables U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized fields such as IT, healthcare, and engineering.
This year, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented several significant changes, including an increase in registration fees. Below are answers to common questions regarding the registration process.
Increased Registration Fee
The registration fee for the H-1B visa has increased from $10 to $215 per beneficiary, marking a 2050% rise.
USCIS has stated that this non-refundable fee must be paid at the time of registration. The fee hike aims to cover administrative costs and deter fraudulent applications.
Registration Period and Process
The H-1B registration process for FY 2026 is open from March 7, 2025, to March 24, 2025. All applications must be submitted electronically through the USCIS online portal during this period.
Afterward, USCIS will conduct a random lottery selection, notifying selected applicants by March 31, 2025.
Beneficiary-Centric Selection Process
Introduced in FY 2025, the beneficiary-centric selection process ensures that each applicant has an equal chance of selection, regardless of the number of applications submitted on their behalf.
This measure prevents system misuse, such as multiple registrations for the same individual.
Preparation Steps for Companies
To participate in the H-1B registration, companies should:
1) Create an online account on the USCIS portal.
2) Pay the $215 registration fee for each applicant.
3) Complete the registration between March 7 and 24.
4) Await the lottery results, which will be announced by March 31.
5) If selected, file the H-1B petition within the specified timeframe.
Payment Methods for Registration
Due to the increased fees, USCIS has adjusted payment options. The daily credit card transaction limit has been temporarily raised from $24,999.99 to $99,999.99.
Companies making payments above this amount must use the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system.
It is advisable to inform banks in advance to prevent ACH blocks on large transactions.
Measures Against Visa Fraud
To prevent fraud in the H-1B lottery system, USCIS implemented new rules effective January 30, 2024.
These include strict verification processes to prevent multiple applications from the same applicant and ensure that only selected individuals can submit H-1B petitions.
Additionally, investigations into fraudulent registrations and duplicate filings have been intensified.
Post-Selection Steps
Lottery results will be announced on March 31, 2025. Selected applicants can file H-1B cap-subject petitions starting April 1, 2025.
The petition filing period is expected to last until June 30, 2025. H-1B visa holders will be eligible to begin working on or after October 1, 2025.
Options for Non-Selected Applicants
If an applicant is not selected in the initial lottery, their status will remain ‘Submitted.’ USCIS may conduct additional lottery rounds if cap slots remain unfilled.
Applicants should regularly check their USCIS accounts for updates. With the H-1B registration deadline approaching, it is crucial for companies and applicants to prepare in advance.
