How to Navigate the H-1B Registration Process Online

A dream job in the U.S., an exciting career move, and endless opportunities ahead. But wait, there’s a plot twist. Before the credits roll on your American dream, there’s one crucial scene to get through — the H-1B registration online process.

Unlike the old days of stacks of paperwork and endless forms, the online registration process has simplified things. With just a few clicks, you’re in the running. Think of it like a virtual red carpet — quick, efficient, and drama-free (if you play your cards right). But don’t get too comfortable. Just like any blockbuster, timing is everything. Missing the registration window? That’s like forgetting your lines on opening night.

And while it’s not as chaotic as it used to be, knowing the ropes can give you an edge. So, grab your director’s chair and settle in. It’s time to take control of your H-1B registration story — without the unnecessary plot twists.

 

 

A Brief Overview of the H-1B Registration Process

Designed for skilled professionals in fields like tech, finance, and healthcare, H-1B is a pathway to gaining valuable experience while contributing your expertise.

Recently, the process for H-1B registration online has replaced the old system of lengthy paperwork. Instead of submitting physical applications, employers can now register electronically through the USCIS portal. This change makes the process quicker, reducing unnecessary delays and paperwork headaches.

But don’t let the simplicity fool you. Registration happens within a limited window, usually in March. Knowing the key dates and acting on time can be the difference between getting your shot or sitting on the sidelines.

Understanding how the H-1B registration process works will set you up for success. Let’s walk through what’s next and keep your American dream within reach.

Also Read: H-1B Visa and Maternity Leave: Understanding the Process

Navigating the H-1B Online Registration System

Step 1: Create a USCIS Online Account

Before submitting an H-1B registration, employers or legal representatives must create an account on the myUSCIS portal. This account serves as the primary platform for submitting and tracking registrations.

To create an account:

• Visit my.uscis.gov and click “Sign Up” in the top right corner.
• Enter a unique email address and confirm it. Avoid using shared emails.
• Check your inbox for a confirmation email and verify your account.
• Create a secure password (8-64 characters, including letters, numbers, and special symbols).
• Set up two-step verification for added security. Choose between email, SMS, or an authenticator app.
• Answer five security questions for password recovery.

Once the account is ready, log in and select “I am an H-1B registrant” under the account type section. This ensures you have the correct access to complete the registration.

Step 2: Start the H-1B Registration Process

Once inside the USCIS portal:

• Click “File a Registration” to begin.
• If using an attorney, enter their representative passcode for Form G-28 authorization.
• Read and acknowledge the H-1B registration overview page, which outlines eligibility, selection, and fees.
• Confirm that only one registration per beneficiary is allowed per employer. Duplicate entries for the same beneficiary will result in disqualification.

This step ensures the system recognizes your intent to submit a valid registration.

Step 3: Enter Employer Information

The next section requires details about the employer or petitioner submitting the registration. This includes:

• Company’s legal name and Doing Business As (DBA) name (if applicable).
• Employer Identification Number (EIN) as registered with the IRS.
• Company address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
• Authorized Signatory’s name, title, phone number, and email.

The authorized signatory is the person responsible for signing legal documents on behalf of the company. After entering these details, click “Next.”

Step 4: Enter Beneficiary Information

Each registration must include details about the foreign worker (beneficiary) applying for the H-1B lottery. Employers need to enter:

• Full legal name (first, middle, last).
• Date of birth and gender.
• Country of birth and citizenship.
• Passport number (valid at the time of registration).
• Eligibility for the master’s cap (for those holding a U.S. advanced degree).

Employers can register multiple beneficiaries at once, but only one entry per worker is allowed per fiscal year. Duplicate entries from the same employer will be removed.

Step 5: Review and Submit Registration

Before finalizing, carefully review the details entered. USCIS allows employers to edit registrations before submission. The system checks for completeness, not accuracy, so double-check all information.

After reviewing:

• Click “Review Registration” to see a summary of entered details.
• If corrections are needed, click “Edit” before submission.
• If everything is correct, proceed to the payment page.

Step 6: Pay the Registration Fee

Each registration requires a $215 non-refundable fee per beneficiary. Payments are processed through Pay.gov, a secure U.S. government payment portal. Accepted methods include:

• Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
• Debit card
• Bank withdrawal (ACH payment)

Once payment is made, USCIS will generate a confirmation number for each beneficiary. This number does not indicate selection but is used for tracking the submission.

Employers should monitor their USCIS account for updates and notifications regarding selection results. Submitting an H-1B registration online is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial. Employers must submit accurate information, avoid duplicate entries, and pay fees before the March 24th deadline of FY 2026. Note that the date may vary each fiscal year.

Need legal guidance for a smooth H-1B process? Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal for expert assistance.

H-1B Registration Timeline and Key Dates

Knowing the H-1B registration online timeline is like having a backstage pass — it gets you where you need to be at the right time. 

The initial registration window for FY 2026 opens at 12:00 PM Eastern Time on March 7, 2025, and closes at 12:00 PM Eastern Time on March 24, 2025. During this period, employers or their legal representatives must register each beneficiary electronically using the USCIS online portal.

• Monitoring Notifications and Updates

 Here’s what each status means:

• Submitted: The registration is officially in the system and eligible for selection. Even if you aren’t selected in the initial lottery, your registration remains active for any additional rounds within the same fiscal year.
• Selected: Congratulations! This means your beneficiary has been chosen to file an H-1B cap petition. You’ll receive further instructions on submitting Form I-129 within the given timeline.
• Not Selected: If your registration isn’t picked, you won’t be able to file an H-1B cap petition for that fiscal year. This status is typically displayed once USCIS has filled the cap.
• Denied: This happens if the registration includes invalid passport or travel document details. It also applies when multiple registrations for the same beneficiary are submitted by the same employer, leading to disqualification.
• Invalidated – Failed Payment: If the registration fee payment fails or isn’t processed correctly, the registration becomes invalid. Confirm your payment details to avoid this.
• Deleted: If you delete a registration before the deadline, it will no longer be eligible for selection. Deleted registrations can’t be reinstated.
• Processing Submission: After submission, USCIS may take up to 72 hours to process and display your registration status. During this period, the system might limit your access to case details.

Only beneficiaries with a Selected status are eligible to proceed with the H-1B petition filing. Stay updated through your account and respond promptly to notifications.

Also Read: What to Do After H-1B Employment Termination

 

 

Additional Information Required for H-1B Registration

Submitting a complete and accurate H-1B registration online requires gathering specific information and documents. Whether you’re an employer, beneficiary, or legal representative, ensuring everything is in place will save time and reduce complications.

For those in specific visa statuses like J-1, F-1, or H-4, additional documentation is required. This may include I-20 forms, I-94 records, visa stamps, or Employment Authorization Documents (EADs).

Form G-28 for Attorney Representation

If you’re using an attorney, they must file Form G-28 to represent you during the registration process. The form serves as an official notification to USCIS about legal representation.

Employers can easily link Form G-28 using the representative passcode in their USCIS account. This allows attorneys to manage and submit the registration on their behalf.

Additional Documents for Initial and Transfer H-1Bs

Depending on the applicant’s history, supporting documents may include:

• Passport Biographical Page: Both current and previous passports, if applicable.

• CV (Curriculum Vitae): An updated resume listing employment history and publications.

• Visa Documents:

1. 1. • J-1 status: Include I-94, DS-2019 forms, visa stamps, and evidence of the 2-year home residency requirement waiver if applicable.
      • F-1 status: Provide I-94, I-20 forms, visa stamps, OPT/STEM EAD cards, and recent pay stubs.
      • Other Visa Status: Submit I-797 approval notices, I-94 records, and any applicable visa stamps.

• Education Documents:

1. 1. • Diploma from the highest degree earned.
      • Academic transcripts.
      • If not in English, certified translations are mandatory.
      • Academic equivalency evaluation if the degree is from a non-U.S. institution.

• Medical License: Required for positions involving patient care.

• I-539 Form: For dependents applying for H-4 visa status.

Having all these documents ready will streamline the process. If you’re uncertain about which forms apply to your case, seeking professional legal support is a smart choice.

For personalized guidance and a stress-free H-1B registration experience, partner with The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal — your trusted ally in navigating the complexities of immigration law.

How the H-1B Selection Process Works

USCIS conducts a random lottery to select applicants from the pool of registrations. For FY 2026, there’s a cap of 85,000 visas:

• 65,000 for regular applicants.
• 20,000 for those with a U.S. master’s degree or higher (Master’s Cap).

Registrations that meet the master’s cap criteria get a second shot at the lottery if they aren’t selected in the regular draw.

What to Do if Not Selected

Your registration will show “Not Selected” only after USCIS confirms the cap has been reached. While this may feel discouraging, exploring alternative visa options with legal counsel could help.

Also Read: Tracking My H-1B Visa Status: Guide to Initial Review

Post-Selection Steps in the H-1B Registration Online Process

Congratulations on being selected for the H-1B registration online process! While this is a significant milestone, the next steps are crucial to turning that selection into an approved visa. Here’s what you need to know.

Once selected, your employer must submit:

• Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) within the 90-day filing window starting April 1.
• A certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the Department of Labor (DOL) to ensure compliance with wage and workplace standards.

Employers must carefully complete both forms, including all supporting documents, to avoid delays or rejections.

Key Steps for Applicants Inside and Outside the U.S.

• Inside the U.S.:
  • If you’re already in a valid status, your employer will file Form I-129 requesting a change of status to H-1B.
  • Once approved, you can start working on October 1 or the designated start date on the petition.
• Outside the U.S.:
  • After Form I-129 approval, you must apply for an H-1B visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Attend the visa interview and submit the required documents, including your approval notice (Form I-797).

Need professional support to streamline your petition? Consult Sweta Khandelwal for expert legal assistance through the filing process.

 

 

Conclusion

Successfully completing your H-1B registration online is just the beginning. Stay proactive by tracking your status, gathering necessary documents early, and submitting your petition within the deadline. Understanding the process reduces stress and increases your chances of approval. 

If you need personalized support, The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal offer expert guidance to ensure your petition is accurate and timely. Have questions about documentation? Sweta Khandelwal provides tailored solutions for both employers and beneficiaries. For step-by-step legal assistance, Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal and move confidently toward your H-1B goals.

Disclaimer

Please note that the prices listed for visa services are estimates and may vary in real-time. We recommend consulting the official government websites or other authoritative resources for the most up-to-date pricing information. These estimates do not constitute a guarantee of costs, and fees may change without notice.