You’ve probably heard that multiple H-1B registrations increase your chances in the lottery. If different employers submit your name, you’re bound to win, right? Well, USCIS sees things differently.
FY 2025 cap season registration held in March 2024. For 2024, the H-1B registration process has changed, and so have the rules on multiple registrations. What once seemed like a loophole is now under strict scrutiny. Employers submitting multiple registrations that are not supported by distinct, bona-fide job offers from independent employers risk serious consequences. And if you’re the applicant, thinking this strategy will secure your visa? Think again—USCIS has new measures to detect and reject duplicate filings.
Before considering multiple registrations, understand the process, the risks, and how to do it the right way. Let’s break it down.
Understand the H-1B Multiple Registration Process
The H-1B registration system has gone through major changes since 2021, and the impact is clear. If you’re an employer trying to register a foreign worker, you may have noticed that USCIS has tightened its grip on multiple registrations. The goal? To stop unfair advantages and fraudulent filings.
For the FY 2025 H-1B cap registration period, data shows a significant drop in attempts to manipulate the lottery system. This shift is largely due to the new beneficiary-centric selection process, which prioritizes unique applicants over duplicate entries. USCIS introduced this rule under its Final Rule on Improving the H-1B Registration Selection Process and Program Integrity—a fancy way of saying: “If you’re trying to game the system, we’re watching.”
Pre-Registration Requirements
Every year, USCIS opens a pre-registration period where employers submit electronic registrations for potential H-1B beneficiaries. But here’s where it gets strict—each employer must attest, under penalty of perjury, that the information they provide is complete, true, and correct.
When registering a beneficiary, the employer must confirm that:
- The registration reflects a genuine job offer.
- They haven’t colluded with another employer or agent to submit multiple registrations for the same beneficiary.
- They aren’t trying to increase the chances of selection unfairly.
Any false attestation makes the registration invalid. If USCIS finds discrepancies, it can:
- Reject the registration immediately.
- Deny or revoke an H-1B petition tied to the false registration.
- Refer the employer for criminal investigation.
USCIS isn’t taking these issues lightly. Based on evidence from FY 2023 and FY 2024, it has already conducted extensive fraud investigations—resulting in denied petitions, revoked approvals, and law enforcement referrals. USCIS has indicated it will review FY 2025 results and future cap-season data, including FY 2026, to identify any remaining fraud.
For employers, these updates mean one thing: play by the rules or risk serious consequences. But don’t get discouraged. The H-1B program is still a critical part of the U.S. economy. Employers who genuinely need skilled foreign workers can and should participate. The key is to follow the process correctly and stay informed about evolving USCIS policies.
For employers unsure about compliance, getting legal guidance is more important than ever. Making the right moves now can save you from costly mistakes later.
The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal can help you comply with USCIS regulations and avoid registration pitfalls. With extensive experience in H-1B filings, they provide expert legal advice to keep your petitions compliant and fraud-free.
The Current H-1B Lottery Process
If you thought the old H-1B lottery system was unpredictable, the new one might just surprise you. USCIS has revamped the selection process to curb misuse and increase fairness. Let’s break it down.
Earlier, each employer could submit registrations for the same beneficiary. This led to a situation where multiple employers—sometimes coordinated—would file for a single individual, artificially inflating selection chances. USCIS picked registrations at random without tracking how many times a beneficiary’s name appeared.
The New System: Focus on ‘Unique’ Beneficiaries
Starting with the FY 2025 H-1B cap season, USCIS has switched to a beneficiary-centric selection process. Instead of selecting registrations based on employer submissions, USCIS now counts only unique beneficiaries. This means:
- Each beneficiary is counted once, no matter how many employers register them
- H-1B multiple registrations for the same beneficiary won’t increase selection chances
- Employers can still file for the same beneficiary, but selection is fairer
USCIS believes this change deters fraudulent registrations and ensures that legitimate applicants—who meet the program’s intent—get a fair shot.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Transition from F1 to H1B Visa Stamping Process
What is the Risk of Multiple H-1B Registrations?
USCIS actively investigates H-1B registrations that show patterns of collusion or false attestations. If they find fraudulent filings:
- Registrations can be denied outright.
- Approved petitions can be revoked—even after selection.
- Employers may face penalties, investigations, and possible legal action.
- Beneficiaries may face issues in future visa applications.
Any attempt to coordinate multiple registrations for the same beneficiary can lead to petition revocations and potential legal action by USCIS.
Handling multiple H-1B registrations requires careful legal planning. Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal today to protect your H-1B petitions from unnecessary risks.
Strategies for Employers to Handle Multiple H-1B Registration Rules
Employers filing H-1B registrations must be proactive and precise to avoid errors that could lead to rejections or fraud allegations. The USCIS has tightened its scrutiny on multiple registrations, making compliance more important than ever. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Ensure Accurate and Consistent Beneficiary Information
Even minor inconsistencies in a beneficiary’s details can raise red flags during the USCIS review process. Employers should:
- Verify that the spelling of the beneficiary’s name, passport number, and birthdate matches across all registrations.
- Avoid discrepancies in job titles, salary details, and employer information.
- Use a single, verifiable point of contact for USCIS communications to prevent miscommunication.
2. Register Only for Genuine Job Openings
Employers must ensure that every H-1B registration is backed by a real, full-time job offer. USCIS is actively investigating cases where:
- Multiple employers submit duplicate registrations for the same beneficiary without genuine intent to hire.
- Companies attempt to manipulate the lottery system by submitting registrations without actual job openings.
3. Maintain Clear Documentation for USCIS Audits
To prove compliance, employers should maintain:
- Offer letters confirming the terms of employment.
- Prevailing wage determinations to justify salary levels.
- Work location details match the information in the Labor Condition Application (LCA).
USCIS may request this documentation at any stage, and inconsistent records can trigger an RFE (Request for Evidence) or denial.
4. Avoid Third-Party Registration Mismanagement
Some companies rely on external agents or consultants to handle their H-1B registrations. While this can be helpful, improper handling may lead to:
- Duplicate or fraudulent filings without the employer’s knowledge.
- Misrepresentation of job roles, salaries, or work locations.
- Failure to comply with attestation requirements leads to legal risks.
Employers should always vet third-party service providers carefully and retain full control over the registration process.
H-1B compliance is more than just submitting registrations—it’s about avoiding costly mistakes and legal risks. Contact Sweta Khandelwal today to safeguard your H-1B filings.
How to Handle USCIS Notices and Revocations?
Receiving a Notice of Intent to Revoke (NOIR) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) from USCIS can be overwhelming, but employers and beneficiaries can take proactive steps to respond effectively. Here’s how:
Why USCIS Issues Revocations
USCIS may issue a revocation notice if they determine that:
- The initial H-1B petition contained false or misleading information.
- The beneficiary failed to maintain valid H-1B status (e.g., working outside the approved job role).
- The employer no longer has a legitimate job offer that meets H-1B requirements.
- Fraud or misrepresentation was detected in the registration or petition process.
A Notice of Intent to Revoke (NOIR) does not mean an automatic denial—it provides an opportunity to respond with evidence before USCIS makes a final decision.
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Respond to a Notice of Intent to Revoke (NOIR)
If you receive a NOIR, timing is critical—you typically have 30 days (33 days if served by mail) to respond. Here’s what to do:
- Carefully review the notice to understand the specific reason for revocation.
- Gather supporting documents (e.g., employment records, work location details, client contracts) to prove compliance.
- Provide a legal explanation addressing USCIS concerns and demonstrating that the petition was filed in good faith.
- Work with an immigration attorney to draft a well-structured response that directly counters USCIS’s findings.
If USCIS officially revokes an H-1B petition, employers may:
- File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider (MTR) if they believe USCIS made a mistake or overlooked critical evidence.
- Appeal the decision with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO).
- Refile the H-1B petition with updated documentation if eligible.
Acting quickly is essential, as failure to respond or appeal can jeopardize the beneficiary’s work authorization in the U.S.
Also Read: Schengen Visa Application with H-1B US Visa
FAQs
- What is the H-1B multiple registration process?
The H-1B multiple registration process allows different employers to submit registrations for the same beneficiary. However, USCIS has implemented strict fraud prevention measures to ensure that multiple registrations are legitimate and not an attempt to manipulate the lottery system.
- When is the H-1B lottery for 2025?
The H-1B lottery for the FY 2025 cap took place in March 2024. The USCIS randomly selected registrations, and selected petitioners were notified to proceed with filing their H-1B petitions.
- What is the H-1B application deadline for 2025?
The H-1B registration period for FY 2025 was from March 6 to March 22, 2024. Those selected in the lottery had to file their complete petitions within the filing window provided by USCIS.
- What are the H-1B visa requirements?
The H-1B visa requires the applicant to have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a specialty occupation. The applicant must possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a related field. The employer must also file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor.
- What is the H-1B registration process for 2025?
Employers had to create an account on the USCIS online portal, submit beneficiary details, and pay the registration fee during the March 2024 registration window. USCIS then conducted a random selection process to determine who could proceed with filing petitions.
- What is the H-1B registration fee for 2026?
For the FY 2026 season, the registration fee is expected to increase as per USCIS’s final fee rule. The previous fee was $10 per registration, but it is set to rise to $215 per registration for the FY 2026 cap season.
- What is the H-1B registration process for 2026?
The process is expected to remain the same, with employers submitting registrations during the designated period in early 2025. USCIS will then conduct a lottery and notify selected petitioners.
- When is the H-1B application deadline for 2026?
The registration window for the FY 2026 H-1B cap is expected to open in March 2025, with exact dates to be announced by USCIS closer to the registration period.
Conclusion
Getting through the H-1B multiple registration process isn’t just about submitting entries and hoping for the best. It’s about playing by the rules, staying informed, and having the right support when challenges arise.
Imagine this—you’ve done everything right. You’ve registered your candidate, followed all compliance guidelines, and even double-checked every detail. But then, a USCIS notice lands in your inbox, questioning the legitimacy of your petition. Do you panic? No. Because you have expert legal guidance on your side.
At The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal, immigration attorneys have helped countless employers navigate (not using this word) the complexities of H-1B multiple registrations. If you’re an employer looking to sponsor the right talent while staying compliant with the new USCIS selection rules, it’s time to consult a legal expert. Sweta Khandelwal has over 15 years of experience guiding businesses through the evolving H-1B process. Don’t wait until a denial or revocation disrupts your hiring plans. Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal today and secure the right strategies to successfully handle multiple H-1B registrations.
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.
