Important news for aspiring H-1B visa holders: In a recent statement from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it has been announced that the registration period for H-1B visas for fiscal 2025 will end on March 22nd, 2024, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time.
This update comes with several changes and requirements that prospective petitioners and their representatives need to be aware of.
H-1B Visa Registration Process
During the registration period, individuals and their legal representatives are required to utilize a USCIS online account to electronically register each beneficiary and make the necessary payment for registration fees. This online platform also facilitates collaboration on registrations and petitions, streamlining the process for all parties involved.
Access to Forms
Forms I-129 and I-907, crucial for H-1B petitions and requests for premium processing service, are now accessible through USCIS online accounts, providing a more convenient avenue for petitioners to complete their documentation.
Filing Deadlines and Fee Changes
Online filing for H-1B cap petitions will commence on April 1. Additionally, the USCIS will announce the availability of online filing for non-cap H-1B petitions at a later date. Petitioners must register and pay the registration fee electronically for each beneficiary, as mandated by the federal agency.
Fee Adjustments
Beginning April 1, visa fees will increase to $110, marking the first hike since 2016. Similarly, registration fees for H-1B visas have been raised from $10 to $215. These adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity of the H-1B program and minimize fraudulent activities.
| Fee Type | Previous Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee (Effective April 1) | $100 | $110 |
| Registration Fee | $10 | $215 |
Program Updates
The FY 2025 H-1B cap introduces a lottery system to promote fairness and reduce fraud in the allocation of visas.
Additionally, USCIS initiated a pilot program in 2023 allowing for the domestic renewal of certain work visas, benefiting 20,000 participants. However, spouses of H-1B employees are still required to leave the country for visa renewal.
New Requirements
Starting with the FY 2025 initial registration period, USCIS mandates registrants to provide valid passport or travel document information for each beneficiary.
Furthermore, some petitions subject to the congressionally mandated H-1B cap can now be filed with employment start dates after October 1 of the relevant fiscal year.
Additional Points to Consider
Spousal Renewals: Currently, spouses of H-1B visa holders must leave the country to renew their visas. This policy remains unchanged.
Passport Information Required: Starting with the FY 2025 registration period, all applicants must provide valid passport or travel document information during registration.
Flexible Start Dates: Some petitions under the H-1B cap can now be filed for employment start dates occurring after October 1st of the relevant fiscal year.
Maintaining Accuracy: USCIS has the authority to deny or revoke petitions if the underlying registration contains false information.
Stringent Measures
The final rule empowers USCIS to deny or revoke petitions in cases where the underlying registration contained false attestations or was otherwise deemed invalid, underscoring the agency’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the visa program.
Act Now!
If you’re aiming for an H-1B visa for fiscal year 2025, don’t delay! Register electronically through your USCIS online account before the March 22nd deadline. Stay tuned for further announcements from USCIS regarding the filing date for non-cap H-1B petitions.
(Source and Inputs from USCIS)
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