The FY 2026 H-1B cap registration period is fast approaching. It opens at noon Eastern on March 7, 2025, and closes on March 24, 2025. If you’re a prospective petitioner or representative, here’s everything you need to know to ensure your registration is successful.
Key Takeaways
- Registration Period: Opens at noon Eastern on March 7 and ends on March 24, 2025.
- Registration Fee: $215 per beneficiary.
- Selection Process: Beneficiary-centric, meaning registrations are selected by individual beneficiary, not employer.
- Payment Method: Credit card transactions up to $99,999.99; amounts above require ACH payments.
Context
The H-1B registration process has evolved in recent years. In 2020, USCIS introduced an electronic registration system, which simplified the registration process for both employers and beneficiaries. In 2024, the beneficiary-centric selection process was implemented, ensuring fairness by focusing on the individual instead of the number of employers registering the same person.
Understanding the H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa program is essential for U.S. employers seeking to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. These are jobs that require at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. The H-1B cap is set annually, and the registration process is a competitive one.
The H-1B visa is a key avenue for skilled foreign workers to secure employment in the U.S., with a yearly cap on the number of visas issued.
The Registration Process
To participate, employers must electronically register each beneficiary via the USCIS online portal. The registration period for FY 2026 opens at noon Eastern on March 7, 2025, and closes at noon on March 24, 2025. A $215 fee per beneficiary is required at the time of registration.
Employers must submit electronic registrations by March 24, 2025, and pay a non-refundable $215 fee per beneficiary.
Selection and Petition Filing
After the registration period closes, USCIS conducts a random selection process. Employers whose beneficiaries are selected will be notified and have a 90-day window to file a full H-1B petition. The filing period generally starts on April 1.
Employers with selected beneficiaries can file a complete petition starting April 1, 2025, and must do so within the 90-day window.
Legal Aid and the Need for an Immigration Attorney
Given the complexity of the H-1B registration process, it’s often wise to seek the expertise of an immigration attorney. Legal professionals can help ensure all forms are completed correctly and filed on time, minimizing the risk of errors that could lead to a denied petition.
Hiring an immigration attorney can help ensure a smooth registration and filing process, improving the chances of success.
Conclusion
The FY 2026 H-1B registration period is an important milestone for employers and potential employees alike. Understanding the process and preparing in advance, along with seeking legal guidance, will significantly enhance the chances of a successful petition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the H-1B visa?
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree.
When does the FY 2026 H-1B registration period open?
The registration period opens on March 7, 2025, at noon Eastern and closes on March 24, 2025.
What is the registration fee for the FY 2026 H-1B cap?
The registration fee is $215 per beneficiary.
How is the H-1B selection process conducted?
The process is beneficiary-centric, meaning selections are based on individual beneficiaries, not the number of registrations submitted by employers.
What payment methods are accepted for the registration fee?
Credit card transactions up to $99,999.99 are accepted. Payments exceeding this require ACH transactions.
Why should I hire an immigration attorney for the H-1B process?
An immigration attorney can ensure that all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time, helping to avoid costly mistakes and increasing the chances of success.
Authors: Jonathan Wasden & Justin Rivera, Immigration Attorneys