USCIS Reveals FY 2025 H-1B Registration Numbers

Did the H-1B lottery just get harder? If you applied for an H-1B visa in 2025, you were up against nearly half a million applicants. But here’s the catch—USCIS made some big changes this year.

Total H-1B registrations for 2025 saw a sharp drop compared to previous years. USCIS cracked down on fraud, changing how the selection process works. If you’re wondering why the numbers dipped and how this impacts your chances, keep reading.

 

 

Total H-1B Registrations for 2025: A Sharp Decline

The total H-1B registration count for FY 2025 marks a significant shift in the selection process. USCIS received 479,953 total registrations, of which 470,342 were deemed eligible—a 38.6% drop from FY 2024, when eligible registrations reached 758,994.

For FY 2025, USCIS reported approximately 442,000 unique beneficiaries, only a slight dip from 446,000 in FY 2024. However, the average registrations per beneficiary dropped significantly—from 1.70 in FY 2024 to 1.06 in FY 2025, reflecting the impact of the new selection rules.

Cap Fiscal Year	Total Registrations	Eligible Registrations	Eligible Registrations for Beneficiaries with No Other Eligible Registrations	Eligible Registrations for Beneficiaries with Multiple Eligible Registrations	Selected Registrations
2021	274,237	269,424	241,299	28,125	124,415
2022	308,613	301,447	211,304	90,143	131,924
2023	483,927	474,421	309,241	165,180	127,600
2024	780,884	758,994	350,103	408,891	188,400
2025	479,953	470,342	423,028	47,314	135,137

Source: USCIS Official Website

With the FY 2026 H-1B cap registration opening on March 7, 2025, it remains to be seen whether these trends continue. The introduction of organizational accounts, a $215 registration fee, and stricter selection criteria could further refine the total H-1B registration in 2025.

Also Read: Changing H-1B Status to Marriage Green Card: A Simple Path

Why H-1B Registrations Declined in 2025: Fraud Prevention & Policy Shifts

The sharp decline in H-1B registrations for FY 2025 wasn’t just a statistical anomaly—it was the result of USCIS cracking down on fraud and multiple registrations. The agency’s new beneficiary-centric selection process effectively eliminated the widespread practice of multiple employer-based registrations, preventing applicants from unfairly increasing their chances.

Key Fraud Prevention Measures That Shaped FY 2025 H-1B Registrations

• Beneficiary-Centric Selection
  Instead of allowing multiple employers to register the same applicant, USCIS now selects each unique beneficiary only once, no matter how many employers submit their names. This prevented duplicate filings, ensuring a fairer selection process.
  

• Strict Attestation Requirements
  Employers had to sign a legally binding attestation stating that:

1. 1. • Their registrations were legitimate job offers.
      • They had not collaborated with other entities to file multiple registrations for the same applicant.
      • All information was truthful and complete.

• Any false or misleading attestation resulted in immediate registration rejection, petition denial, or even criminal referrals to law enforcement.
  

• Active Fraud Investigations & Criminal Referrals
  After uncovering widespread fraud in FY 2023 and FY 2024, USCIS ramped up its fraud investigations.

1. • Petitions were denied or revoked if linked to fraudulent registrations.
   • Law enforcement referrals were made for criminal prosecution.
   • FY 2025 and FY 2026 data are being actively monitored for attempts to manipulate the system.

With these strict anti-fraud measures in place, FY 2026 will be another test of how well USCIS can maintain the integrity of the H-1B process.

If you’re an H-1B US visa applicant for 2025, understanding these policy shifts is critical. The beneficiary-centric selection process means fewer chances for duplicate registrations but ensures a fairer and more transparent system. Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal for personalized advice on your H-1B application and compliance with the latest USCIS policies.

 

 

Key Dates and Registration Process for H-1B FY 2025

If you’re an H-1B US visa applicant for 2025, timing is everything. USCIS follows a strict timeline from the registration period in March to the start date in October. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

1. H-1B Registration Period: March 7 – March 24, 2025

• Employers (petitioners) must submit online registrations for each unique beneficiary through the USCIS online system.

2. H-1B Lottery Selection: By March 31, 2025

• If USCIS receives more registrations than the annual cap allows (85,000 total: 65,000 regular cap and 20,000 master’s cap), a random selection lottery is conducted.
• Selected applicants move forward in the process, while unselected ones remain ineligible to file a petition.

3. H-1B Petition Filing Period: April 1 – June 30, 2025

• Selected employers must submit complete H-1B petitions along with the Labor Condition Application (LCA) approved by the Department of Labor (DOL).
• USCIS does not process applications on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can expect a faster process with premium processing.

4. USCIS Decision & Approvals: April – September 2025

• Approved petitions move forward to visa stamping and processing.
• RFEs (Requests for Evidence) may be issued, requiring additional documentation from employers or beneficiaries.

5. H-1B Employment Start Date: October 1, 2025

• Approved H-1B applicants can officially start working in the U.S. under their new status.
• Change of status applicants (already in the U.S.) transition to H-1B automatically on this date.

New vs. Returning Employers: What’s Different?

• New Employers: Must create a USCIS online account to submit registrations.
• Returning Employers: Use their existing USCIS account but need to ensure compliance with the new beneficiary-centric selection process to avoid disqualifications.

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

H-1B 2025 Lottery Results: Dates, Process & Next Steps

If you applied for the total H-1B registration 2025, here’s everything you need to know about the lottery results, checking your status, and updates on additional selection rounds.

Unfortunately, H-1B applicants cannot check the lottery results themselves. Even though the Beneficiary Confirmation Number (a 16-digit alphanumeric ID) is issued during registration, it cannot be used to check selection status.

Instead, the employer or attorney must log into their USCIS online account to view the lottery outcome. Here’s what the different status updates mean:

• Selected: Your employer can now file an H-1B petition with USCIS.
• Submitted: Your registration is still in consideration for future lotteries.
• Not Selected: You have been removed from the lottery process for FY 2025.

If selected, your employer has 90 days to submit your H-1B petition, which must include all supporting documents.

Second Round H-1B Lottery for FY 2025: What to Expect

A second lottery happens only if USCIS does not receive enough H-1B petitions from the first round.

• FY 2024 Second Lottery: USCIS announced it on July 30, and results started rolling out in early August.
• FY 2025: If another round is needed, expect an announcement in July or August 2025, with results released in phases.

Will There Be a Third H-1B Lottery for FY 2025?

A third lottery is rare but possible if USCIS still has unfilled slots.

• In FY 2024, a third-round did not happen because enough petitions were filed after the second round.
• If needed, a third lottery for FY 2025 could take place in November or December 2025.

If you weren’t selected in any round, it’s time to plan for H-1B 2026 or explore alternative visa options.

If your registration is selected, your employer has until June 30, 2025, to submit the H-1B petition. The petition must include:

• Job offer details from a U.S. employer.
• Labor Condition Application (LCA) approval from the Department of Labor.
• Evidence of qualifications, such as degrees and certifications.

Processing times vary, so working with an immigration attorney can help avoid delays. The difference between a smooth approval and a rejection often comes down to the right legal guidance. Talk to The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal and let an experienced immigration attorney handle the process while you plan your big move.

Common FAQs About the H-1B 2025 Lottery Results

1. What should I do if my H-1B registration status still shows “Submitted” after the first lottery?

If your status remains “Submitted” after the first lottery in total H-1B registration 2025, it means your application was not selected in the initial round but is still eligible for future rounds.

• Do not panic—this status remains unchanged until USCIS officially confirms the cap has been reached.
• If a second lottery happens (usually in July or August), your registration will still be considered.
• If not selected by the final round, your status will eventually change to “Not Selected”, indicating your application is no longer in the race for FY 2025.

2. Can my employer file multiple H-1B registrations to improve my chances?

No, duplicate H-1B registrations for the same beneficiary by the same employer are strictly prohibited.

• If USCIS detects multiple entries from the same employer, all your registrations could be disqualified.
• However, different employers can file separate registrations for the same candidate. If multiple employers select you, you can choose which one to proceed with.

3. What happens if I’m selected in the lottery but my employer doesn’t file my petition?

Being selected in the H-1B lottery does not guarantee a visa. If your employer fails to file your H-1B petition within the 90-day window, your selection becomes invalid.

• If the employer backs out, you cannot transfer your selection to another company.
• You will need to reapply in the next H-1B season unless you find another visa option (e.g., O-1, L-1, or cap-exempt H-1B).

4. Can I change employers after my H-1B is approved?

Yes, but only after your H-1B petition is approved and you have started working under H-1B status.

• Once your H-1B petition is approved and you begin employment, you can transfer to another employer under H-1B portability rules.
• If your petition is not yet approved, you cannot transfer to another employer using the same lottery selection.

5. What are my options if my H-1B lottery application is not selected?

If you are not selected in any round of the lottery, consider these alternatives:

• Try again next year: You can register for the H-1B lottery again in March 2026.
• Explore cap-exempt H-1B options: Certain non-profits, universities, and research institutions offer cap-exempt H-1B sponsorships.
• Consider alternative visas: Options like L-1 (intra-company transfer), O-1 (extraordinary ability), E-2 (investor visa), or TN (for Canadians and Mexicans) might work for you.
• Study in the U.S.: A master’s or Ph.D. program in the U.S. can qualify you for the H-1B master’s cap, increasing your chances in the lottery.

6. If I am selected, how long do I have to submit my H-1B petition?

Once selected, your employer has 90 days to file the complete H-1B petition with USCIS.

• The filing window usually starts in April and ends by June 30.
• Missing this deadline means forfeiting your selection, and you’ll need to enter the lottery again next year.

7. Will premium processing speed up my chances of getting an H-1B approval?

Premium Processing only expedites the processing time but does not increase your chances of approval.

• Regular processing can take several months, while Premium Processing guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days.
• The Premium Processing fee is $2,805 (as of 2025), and either the employer or beneficiary can pay for it.

8. What if I am selected, but my H-1B petition gets denied?

Selection in the lottery does not guarantee visa approval. USCIS may reject or deny your petition due to the following:

• Incomplete documentation
• Employer-employee relationship issues
• Incorrect filing fees or errors
• Failure to meet specialty occupation requirements

If denied, your employer can file an appeal or correct errors and reapply next year.

9. Can I travel outside the U.S. while my H-1B petition is pending?

If you are already in the U.S. on OPT, STEM OPT, or another visa, traveling before your petition is approved can be risky.

• If you leave the U.S. while your Change of Status request is pending, USCIS may consider it abandoned.
• If you must travel, consult an immigration attorney to determine the best course of action.

10. When can I start working if my H-1B petition is approved?

If your H-1B petition is approved, your work authorization starts on October 1, 2025.

• If you’re already in the U.S. on F-1 OPT, you may qualify for Cap-Gap Extension, allowing you to continue working until October 1.
• If you are outside the U.S., you must attend a visa interview at a U.S. consulate before entering the country.

 

 

Conclusion

USCIS is making continuous efforts to maintain integrity in the total H-1B registration 2025. These changes aim to prevent fraud, increase transparency, and streamline the selection process for genuine applicants.

The new rules and stricter oversight have significantly impacted registration trends, ensuring a fairer system where multiple entries from different employers do not manipulate the lottery. As a result, the process is becoming more transparent, giving real applicants a stronger chance of securing an H-1B visa.

Whether you’re preparing your H-1B filing or looking for options beyond the lottery, talk to Sweta Khandelwal today to secure your U.S. work future before the next season begins. Many applicants find themselves stuck, unsure of whether they should reapply next year, explore cap-exempt options, or consider alternative visa categories. This is where The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal can make a difference. Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal today, as our team is ready to help you plan your next move with confidence, ensuring that you don’t waste another year waiting without a clear direction.

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.