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H-1B Registration Fee and Process Guide 2026

Getting an H-1B visa feels like playing the ultimate lottery, but instead of a jackpot, the prize is your dream job in the U.S. Applicants hope to win this visa lottery, crossing their fingers for good news. But luck isn’t the only thing at play. Knowing how the process works can give you an edge.

For FY 2026, one major change is the increase in the H-1B registration cost. What once cost a mere $10 has jumped significantly. But don’t worry — we’ll break down the why and how of this change. This guide will walk you through everything, from key dates to registration steps, giving you the clarity you need to apply confidently.

So, whether you’re applying for the first time or have faced the lottery heartbreak before, this blog has your back. Let’s understand the details and get you a step closer to that approval.

 

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Key Dates and Timeline for H-1B Registration 2026

Timing is everything when it comes to the H-1B visa process. While the H-1B registration cost has increased, the application timeline remains straightforward. Here’s a detailed look at the key dates you need to know for Fiscal Year 2026.

  • H-1B Registration Period

The registration window opens at noon Eastern on March 7, 2025, and closes at noon Eastern on March 24, 2025. During this time, employers can submit registrations for potential candidates through their USCIS online accounts. It’s a short window, so early registration is recommended.

  • Selection Notifications

Once the registration period ends, USCIS will conduct the H-1B lottery if the number of registrations exceeds the annual cap. Results will be announced by March 31, 2025. If selected, employers will receive a notification through their USCIS accounts.

  • H-1B Petition Filing Period

Selected candidates can proceed with filing their H-1B cap-subject petitions starting April 1, 2025. The exact filing deadline will be mentioned in the selection notice. Typically, USCIS gives a 90-day window to file the petition. Timely submission with accurate documentation is essential to avoid rejection.

By staying organized and preparing early, you’ll have a smoother experience throughout the H-1B process. However, legal mistakes can be costly. For personalized assistance, Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal. Our team can help you meet every deadline and navigate the H-1B process with confidence.

H-1B Registration Cost for FY 2026

H-1B Registration Cost for FY 2026

If you’re applying for an H-1B visa, it’s essential to know about the costs involved. Starting March 2025, the H-1B registration fee will increase from $10 to $215. While this may seem like a steep rise, it reflects necessary adjustments to manage the growing number of H-1B applications and ensure smoother processing.

The USCIS finalized a new rule in January 2024, raising the registration fee to support its operations. The earlier fee of $10 was introduced as a temporary measure in 2020. However, with an increasing number of applicants, the fee no longer covered the administrative costs. By increasing it to $215, USCIS aims to maintain an efficient registration system while ensuring fair processing for all applicants.

This increase also discourages non-serious registrations, as some employers have previously used multiple entries to boost their chances in the lottery. The revised fee ensures that only genuine applicants proceed with the process. Starting FY 2025, USCIS implemented a beneficiary-centric registration system, requiring each beneficiary to have a unique passport number to prevent duplicate entries across multiple employers.

Other H-1B Application Fees for FY 2026

Beyond the registration fee, several other charges apply throughout the H-1B visa application process. Employers must be prepared for these expenses, while employees may need to cover certain fees as well.

1. Form I-129 Filing Fee

  • Amount: $780 for regular employers.
  • For Smaller Employers & Nonprofits: $460.

This fee applies when employers submit Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) to sponsor an employee for an H-1B visa.

2. ACWIA Fee

  • Amount: $750 for companies with 25 or fewer employees.
  • Amount: $1,500 for companies with more than 25 employees.

This fee supports the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA), which funds training programs for U.S. workers.

3. Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee

  • Amount: $500.

This fee is applicable to all initial H-1B petitions and helps USCIS investigate fraudulent activities.

4. Public Law 114-113 Fee

  • Amount: $4,000.

This applies to companies with 50 or more employees, where over 50% are on H-1B or L-1 visas.

5. Asylum Program Fee

  • Amount: $600 for most employers.
  • Amount: $300 for small-scale employers.
  • Exemption: Nonprofits are not required to pay this fee.

This fee helps fund the USCIS asylum processing program and is applicable to employers filing Form I-129 or Form I-140.

6. Premium Processing Fee (Optional)

  • Amount: $2,805.

If you need a decision within 15 calendar days, you can request premium processing. Either the employer or the employee can cover this fee.

Who Is Responsible for Paying H-1B Fees?

Generally, the employer is responsible for most fees, including:

  • Registration fee
  • Form I-129 filing fee
  • ACWIA fee
  • Fraud Prevention and Detection fee
  • Public Law 114-113 fee
  • Asylum Program fee

However, employees are often responsible for fees related to obtaining their visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. In certain cases, employees may also opt to cover the premium processing fee if they need faster results.

  • Impact on Employers and Employees

Employers should factor this cost into their budget when planning their H-1B hiring strategy. For employers hiring foreign talent, the cost increase can be significant, especially for large companies that frequently submit H-1B applications. Small businesses and nonprofits may still benefit from reduced Form I-129 fees and lower Asylum Program fees.

Employees, on the other hand, should discuss fee responsibilities with their employers. While most fees are employer-paid, employees might choose to cover optional expenses like premium processing if they are in urgent need of approval.

Also Read: H-1B Visa Applications: Record Numbers and Impact on U.S. Economy

 

Navigate Your Immigration Journey with Confidence

 

H-1B Lottery Cap and Selection Process

Applying for an H-1B visa? Understanding the lottery cap and selection process can save you time, effort, and confusion. Every year, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues a limited number of H-1B visas through a lottery system. Let’s break down how it works.

The 65,000 Visa Cap and the Additional 20,000 for Advanced Degree Holders

The annual H-1B visa cap is set at 65,000 visas. This is referred to as the regular cap. However, there’s good news for those with a U.S. master’s degree or higher. An additional 20,000 visas are reserved for these applicants, known as the master’s cap or advanced degree exemption.

In short:

  • 65,000 visas for all applicants.
  • 20,000 additional visas for advanced degree holders from U.S. institutions.

If you have a master’s or higher degree from a qualifying U.S. institution, your application first goes into the regular cap pool. If not selected, it gets another chance in the advanced degree lottery, effectively giving you two opportunities to be selected.

The H-1B visa process follows a random selection lottery due to the high number of applicants exceeding the cap. Here’s how it works:

  • Registration Period: Employers submit a simple online registration for each potential H-1B applicant during the registration window, typically in March.
  • Random Selection: USCIS conducts a lottery to select 85,000 applicants from the entire pool, including both regular and master’s cap candidates.
  • Notification: Selected applicants are notified by the end of March. Employers then have 90 days to file the complete Form I-129 petition.
  • Processing and Decision: USCIS reviews the petition and issues a decision. If approved, the applicant can proceed with obtaining the visa and entering the U.S.

Factors Influencing Selection Chances

While the lottery is random, certain factors can indirectly impact your chances:

  • Master’s Degree Advantage:
      • Advanced degree holders enjoy two chances in the lottery, significantly improving their odds.
  • Total Number of Registrations:
      • In recent years, H-1B registrations have skyrocketed, making the lottery increasingly competitive. However, the increased registration fee in FY 2026 might reduce non-serious applications, slightly increasing your chances.
  • Employer’s Reputation:
      • USCIS may flag or investigate fraudulent applications. Reputable companies with a clean immigration record often experience smoother processing.
  • Application Timing:
    • While the lottery is random, submitting a complete and accurate registration early during the application window minimizes the risk of technical issues.

Whether you’re an employer sponsoring an H-1B applicant or an individual applying through the master’s cap, The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal can provide personalized legal support. Contact us today for assistance with your registration, petition filing, and all H-1B-related queries.

Eligibility and Documentation for H-1B Visa

Eligibility and Documentation for H-1B Visa

Planning to apply for an H-1B visa? Understanding the eligibility criteria and required documentation is crucial for a smooth application process. Let’s break down the essentials.

To qualify for an H-1B visa, you must meet specific requirements that apply to both the applicant and the sponsoring employer.

  • Specialty Occupation
      • The H-1B visa is designed for individuals employed in a specialty occupation.
      • A specialty occupation requires specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field.
  • Valid Employer-Employee Relationship
      • The sponsoring employer must demonstrate a legitimate employer-employee relationship where they control and direct the applicant’s work.
  • Educational Qualifications
      • A U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher in the field related to the job is required.
      • Foreign degrees are acceptable if evaluated as equivalent to a U.S. degree.
  • Labor Condition Application (LCA)
    • Employers must file a Form ETA 9035, the Labor Condition Application (LCA), with the Department of Labor (DOL) to ensure the applicant receives the prevailing wage and that hiring the applicant will not negatively impact U.S. workers.

Documents Required During the Registration and Petition Process

The H-1B process has two key stages — registration and petition filing. Here’s what you’ll need at each stage:

During Registration

  • Employer’s Details: Legal business name, Employer Identification Number (EIN), and contact information.
  • Applicant’s Details: Name, date of birth, country of birth, and passport information.
  • Job Title and Description: A detailed job description to confirm the role qualifies as a specialty occupation.

During Petition Filing (Form I-129)

  • Educational Credentials: Degree certificates, transcripts, and credential evaluations (if the degree is from a foreign institution).
  • Employment Offer Letter: A signed offer letter specifying job title, salary, and employment terms.
  • LCA Approval: Certified by the DOL, confirming compliance with wage and working condition requirements.
  • Passport and Visa Copy: For applicants currently in the U.S. on another visa status.
  • Resume: A detailed resume highlighting relevant experience.
  • Proof of Work Experience: Letters from previous employers confirm your qualifications.

Also Read: US Visa 221(g) Administrative Processing: Timeframe and Passport Return

Employer and Applicant Recommendations for H-1B Visa

Applying for an H-1B visa can be challenging, especially with the annual lottery system and evolving regulations. 

Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Selection

  • Early and Accurate Registration
      • Employers should register during the designated USCIS registration period.
      • Double-check all information before submitting to avoid errors that could lead to disqualification.
  • Apply Under Multiple Categories
      • If you have an advanced degree from a U.S. institution, apply under the 20,000 H-1B cap for master’s degree holders.
      • Applicants qualifying under both the regular and advanced degree caps increase their selection chances.
  • Consider Alternative Visa Options
    • If not selected in the H-1B lottery, explore other visa options like the L-1 visa for intracompany transfers or the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities.

Best Practices for Staying Compliant with USCIS Regulations

  • Accurate Job Descriptions
      • Ensure job descriptions clearly align with specialty occupation requirements.
      • Provide detailed information on duties, responsibilities, and the required qualifications.
  • Maintain Documentation
      • Employers must retain copies of Form I-129, the approved Labor Condition Application (LCA), and all supporting evidence.
      • Track employees’ work locations and notify USCIS of any significant changes to avoid non-compliance.
  • Pay the Correct Wages
      • Comply with the prevailing wage requirements outlined in the LCA.
      • Underpayment or misclassification can lead to fines and visa revocations.
  • Stay Aware of Deadlines
    • Mark key deadlines, including registration, petition filing, and visa extension dates.
    • Missing deadlines can lead to application denials or visa status lapses.

Being an applicant aiming to boost your selection chances, having expert support makes all the difference. Reach out to the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal for personalized guidance and ensure your H-1B journey is on the right track.

FAQs

  • What are the H-1B visa requirements?

The H-1B visa requires applicants to have a U.S. job offer in a specialty occupation, usually needing a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field. The employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor, verifying compliance with wage requirements. Applicants may also need to show proof of qualifications, work experience, and relevant certifications.

  • What is the H-1B visa cost from India?
    From India, the applicant typically pays the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee, visa processing fees, which include a $205 non-refundable visa application fee. If premium processing is requested, an additional $2,805 may apply. Other fees like document courier services or medical examination fees may vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
  • When is the H-1B application deadline 2025?

The H-1B registration for FY 2025 opened on 7th March 2024 and lasted around two weeks. For FY 2026, the registration is expected to follow a similar timeline in March 2025, with the lottery results announced by the end of March or early April.

  • What is the H-1B registration fee for 2026?
    For FY 2026, the H-1B registration fee is set to increase to $215 per applicant. This is a significant jump from the previous $10 fee, aiming to cover the administrative costs of the lottery and processing.
  • When is the H-1B lottery 2025 registration?
    The H-1B lottery registration for FY 2025 was conducted in March 2024. Employers submitted electronic registrations during this period. If selected, the employer had a window to submit a complete H-1B petition. A similar registration window is expected for FY 2026 in March 2025.

 

Navigate Your Immigration Journey with Confidence

 

Conclusion

Staying informed about the latest updates on the H-1B visa process is essential to avoid any last-minute surprises. With frequent changes in fees, registration timelines, and lottery processes, relying on credible sources can make a significant difference. 

For expert legal assistance, consider reaching out to The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal. Our team can guide you through every step, from registration to petition filing. If you have questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal. For ongoing updates and tailored support, Sweta Khandelwal is a trusted resource to help you navigate the H-1B journey smoothly.

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.

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Sweta Khandelwal

Sweta completed her Masters in Law from the University of California, Los Angeles and her JD from the Faculty of Law, Delhi University in India and has been practicing law for 15+ years getting visas, green cards, and citizenship for 1000+ clients, 100+ companies across 50+ nationalities.

Sweta has been recognized as a ” Super Lawyer, Rising Star,” and as amongst the ” Top 40 under 40″ immigration attorneys in California (American Society of Legal Advocates). She is also the recipient of the Advocacy Award by the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Sweta is also a chartered accountant — the equivalent of a CPA. This makes her uniquely positioned to understand the immigration needs of her business clients in the broader context of their corporate objectives.

Sweta is actively involved with immigration issues and immigrant communities in various capacities. She has assumed key roles at the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), both at the local and national level. She has been a past chair at the Santa Clara Valley Chapter at AILA and has also been involved in various practice area committees at AILA National. Sweta has addressed multiple conferences/forums in the United States and worldwide on immigration and business issues.

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