H-1B Visa Registration: The H-1B visa registration process for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 is set to begin on March 7, 2025, and will close on March 24, 2025. This year, there are some major changes in the selection process that applicants and employers must understand before submitting their registrations. The new “beneficiary-centric selection process” aims to increase fairness and transparency while reducing fraud and multiple entries.
If you’re an employer looking to hire a skilled foreign worker or a professional seeking an H-1B visa, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the latest updates, eligibility requirements, and registration process, along with useful tips to increase your chances of selection.
H-1B Visa Registration
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Period | March 7, 2025 – March 24, 2025 |
| New Selection Process | Beneficiary-centric lottery system |
| Registration Fee | $215 per beneficiary (previously $10) |
| Notification of Selection | By March 31, 2025 |
| USCIS Registration Portal | USCIS H-1B Registration |
With the H-1B visa registration period opening on March 7, 2025, and a new beneficiary-centric selection process, both employers and applicants must be well-prepared. Understanding the latest updates, eligibility criteria, and registration steps can significantly increase your chances of successfully obtaining an H-1B visa.
What is the H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. The demand for H-1B visas far exceeds the annual cap of 85,000 visas, making the lottery selection process extremely competitive.
Who is Eligible for an H-1B Visa?
To qualify for an H-1B visa, an applicant must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field.
- Work in a specialty occupation requiring specialized knowledge.
- Be sponsored by a U.S. employer who will file the petition on their behalf.
- Meet prevailing wage requirements as determined by the Department of Labor (DOL).
What’s Changing in the H-1B Visa Selection Process for 2025?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a beneficiary-centric selection process, which means:
- Each beneficiary (applicant) will have an equal chance of selection, regardless of how many registrations are submitted on their behalf.
- If multiple employers submit registrations for the same applicant, only one entry will count in the lottery.
- This change aims to reduce fraud and prevent multiple registrations from manipulating the system.
Increased Registration Fee
- The registration fee has increased from $10 to $215 per beneficiary.
- This non-refundable fee must be paid at the time of registration.
Impact on Employers & Applicants
For employers, this means focusing on a single, well-prepared registration rather than submitting multiple entries. Applicants should ensure their passport and employer details are correct to avoid disqualification.
Step-by-Step Guide to H-1B Visa Registration
Step 1: Create a USCIS Online Account
- Employers must create a USCIS online account to submit registrations.
- Registration is available through the USCIS Electronic Registration Process.
Step 2: Enter Beneficiary Details
- Employers must provide accurate details about the applicant, including:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Country of birth & citizenship
- Passport details
Step 3: Submit the Registration and Pay the Fee
- Submit all required information and pay the $215 registration fee before the deadline.
Step 4: Wait for Lottery Results
- USCIS will notify selected applicants by March 31, 2025.
- If selected, the employer can file the full H-1B petition with supporting documents.
Step 5: File the H-1B Petition
- If selected, employers must file Form I-129 with USCIS along with supporting documents within the filing window.
- USCIS will then review and approve or deny the petition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting multiple registrations through different employers – This will no longer increase selection chances.
- Providing incorrect passport details – Make sure the applicant’s information is 100% accurate.
- Late submissions – The deadline is March 24, 2025; don’t wait until the last minute.
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Frequently Asked Questions About H-1B Visa Registration
1. Can I submit multiple registrations for the same applicant?
No. The new beneficiary-centric selection process allows only one valid entry per applicant, regardless of how many employers submit registrations.
2. What happens if I am selected in the lottery?
If selected, the employer must file a full H-1B petition (Form I-129) with USCIS before the designated deadline.
3. How much does H-1B registration cost?
The registration fee is $215 per beneficiary, which must be paid during the online registration process.
4. When will I know if I am selected?
USCIS will notify selected registrants by March 31, 2025.
5. What happens if I am not selected?
If not selected, you may consider alternative visa options such as L-1, O-1, or TN visas.
