Think you’ve got time? Think again. The USCIS H-1B registration deadline for FY 2026 will be here before you know it. Missing it could mean delaying your plans to work in the U.S. for another year. The registration window is short, the process is competitive, and the updates for this year might just catch you off guard.
The registration process isn’t just about submitting your details — it’s about doing it right and on time. And with the registration fee now increased to $215, you’ll want to avoid mistakes. There’s also the lottery selection to think about. Understanding how it works and when notifications roll out could give you an edge. Compliance matters, too — missing even one procedural step could cost you a shot.
But don’t worry — we’ve got your back. From registration timelines to eligibility criteria, we’ll cover everything you need to stay on track. Ready to make your move? Let’s get started.
H-1B Cap Registration for Fiscal Year 2026
Mark your calendars because the USCIS H-1B registration deadline is closer than it seems. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, the registration period opens on March 7, 2025, and closes on March 24, 2025. This 18-day window is your only chance to submit your registration if you’re seeking a coveted spot in the H-1B visa lottery.
The H-1B visa program is a gateway for highly skilled professionals to work in specialized fields like technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance. It allows U.S. employers to hire foreign talent for positions that require specialized knowledge, filling crucial skill gaps in the workforce.
The H-1B cap refers to the annual limit set by Congress on how many visas are available. Each year, 65,000 visas are issued under the regular cap, with an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants with a U.S. master’s degree or higher.
Creating your account and registering on time is critical. Stay ahead by knowing the deadlines and preparing in advance.
Also Read: H-1B Visa Applications: Record Numbers and Impact on U.S. Economy
H-1B Cap Registration Process
The USCIS H-1B registration deadline isn’t just a date on the calendar — it’s the first step toward your U.S. career. For FY 2026, the process remains electronic and requires employers to register each applicant online during the designated window.
- Updated Registration Fee
A notable change this year is the increased H-1B registration fee. It’s now $215 per registrant, up from the previous $10. This non-refundable fee helps fund operational costs and streamline application processing. While the higher fee might sting, it reflects USCIS’s effort to maintain efficient services and reduce backlogs. Think of it as an investment in faster and more transparent processing.
Here’s how you can register:
- Create a USCIS Online Account: Visit the USCIS website and choose the appropriate account type (typically “H-1B Registrant” for employers or attorneys). You’ll need basic information like your company name, EIN, and applicant details.
- Provide Required Information: Enter all necessary details about the applicant, including their qualifications and job role. Double-check everything because incomplete or incorrect information can lead to a rejected registration.
- Pay the Fee: Submit the $215 fee using an approved payment method. Keep the receipt as proof.
- Submit the Registration: Confirm all information before submitting. Once the registration is submitted, further changes aren’t allowed.
USCIS has introduced system upgrades to simplify account management. Expect a more user-friendly interface, quicker status updates, and improved notifications. These enhancements are designed to reduce registration errors and provide a seamless experience for employers and legal representatives. You’ll receive real-time updates on your application status, minimizing confusion and uncertainty.
Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal for expert guidance. We’ll help you complete your registration accurately and avoid common mistakes that could delay your H-1B application.
Eligibility and Compliance Requirements for the H-1B Process in FY 2026
To proceed further, you must understand the eligibility and compliance requirements for an H-1B visa. Not every job or candidate qualifies, and failing to meet USCIS standards could lead to disqualification.
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Specialty Occupations and Educational Requirements
The H-1B visa is designed for specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field. Common fields include technology, engineering, finance, healthcare, and mathematics. However, even roles in fields like education or marketing may qualify if they meet the standards of a specialty occupation.
Applicants typically need at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a foreign equivalent. In some cases, a combination of education, training, and experience may be acceptable, but it requires thorough documentation.
H-1B Beneficiary Eligibility Criteria
To qualify as a beneficiary, you must meet these criteria:
- Job Relevance: Your degree must directly relate to the role you’re applying for.
- Employer-Employee Relationship: The employer must have the right to control your work.
- Wage Requirements: You must be paid at least the prevailing wage for your occupation in the job location.
Additionally, maintaining lawful status while applying is critical. Unauthorized employment or overstaying a visa could jeopardize your eligibility.
Compliance and the Attestation Requirement
Following USCIS procedures is non-negotiable. Before submitting a registration, employers must attest under penalty of perjury that all information is complete, true, and correct. The attestation certifies that the registration reflects a legitimate job offer. Employers must not work with others to submit multiple registrations to unfairly increase the beneficiary’s selection chances.
The required attestation states:
“I further certify that this registration (or these registrations) reflects a legitimate job offer and that I, or the organization on whose behalf this registration (or these registrations) is being submitted, have not worked with, or agreed to work with, another registrant, petitioner, agent, or other individual or entity to submit a registration to unfairly increase chances of selection for the beneficiary or beneficiaries in this submission.”
If USCIS finds the attestation false, they may deny or revoke the petition, in line with 8 CFR 214.2(h)(10)(ii) and 8 CFR 214.2(h)(11)(iii)(A)(2). Additionally, those who submit false attestations could face referral to federal law enforcement agencies for further investigation.
Also Read: H-1B Visa Cap Count History and Its Impact on U.S. Economy
How Does the H-1B Lottery Work?
Once the USCIS H-1B registration deadline closes, the next step is the H-1B lottery selection. This randomized process is necessary due to the high demand for H-1B visas. USCIS first conducts a lottery for the regular cap. All eligible registrations are entered, and 65,000 are randomly selected.
After that, another lottery takes place for the master’s cap from the remaining advanced degree applicants. This two-step process increases the selection chances for those holding a U.S. master’s degree.
- Beneficiary-Centric Selection System
In 2025, USCIS introduced a beneficiary-centric selection system to address concerns of unfair advantages. Previously, multiple employers could submit registrations for the same beneficiary, increasing their selection chances. Now, selections are made based on unique beneficiaries rather than the number of registrations. Even if multiple companies register the same person, the beneficiary will be entered only once into the lottery. This change promotes fairness and reduces misuse of the system.
Notification Timeline and Next Steps
After the lottery, USCIS notifies selected applicants through their online accounts. Notifications typically arrive by the end of March. If selected, the sponsoring employer must submit a complete H-1B petition (Form I-129) within the filing period, usually 90 days from notification. Applicants not selected will see their registration marked as “Not Selected” in their account.
Want to maximize your chances and avoid common mistakes? Contact The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal for expert legal assistance throughout the H-1B lottery and petition process.
Post-Selection Steps in the FY 2026 Updates
Once the USCIS H-1B registration deadline passes and your registration is selected, the next step is filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This petition is the formal request to grant the H-1B visa to the selected beneficiary. Successfully navigating this phase requires careful attention to detail.
The filing period’s start and end dates will be clearly stated in the selection notice. It’s best to file early to address any unforeseen issues or Requests for Evidence (RFEs) from USCIS.
Key Documents Required for Form I-129
Submitting a complete and accurate Form I-129 is essential. The supporting documentation should demonstrate that the position qualifies as a specialty occupation and that the beneficiary meets all eligibility requirements.
Here’s what employers generally need to include:
- Job Offer Letter: Provide a detailed letter specifying the job title, duties, salary, and location. Ensure it clearly defines how the role requires specialized knowledge.
- Beneficiary Qualifications: Submit academic transcripts, degree certificates, and evaluations to prove the candidate’s qualifications. For foreign degrees, include a credential evaluation showing equivalency to a U.S. degree.
- Labor Condition Application (LCA): A certified LCA from the Department of Labor (DOL) confirms compliance with wage requirements and working conditions. It must match the job details in Form I-129.
- Employer Information: Submit documents verifying the legitimacy of the petitioning company. This may include tax records, business licenses, and recent financial statements.
- Specialty Occupation Justification: Provide supporting evidence like industry reports, employee testimonies, and prior hiring records to demonstrate why the role requires specialized knowledge.
Employment Start Dates and Timeline Update
If the petition is approved, the employment typically starts on October 1, 2025 — the beginning of the new fiscal year. Some beneficiaries may be eligible for cap-gap extensions if they’re currently in F-1 student status. In that case, they can continue working until their H-1B start date.
For cap-exempt employers, such as universities or research organizations, the employment start date can be more flexible. However, they still need to submit a timely Form I-129. Carefully reviewing every detail and submitting accurate information will reduce the risk of complications.
Also Read: H-1B Visa Quota: Timeline and Requirements Explained
Preparation Tips for H-1B Registration
Proper preparation increases your chances of selection and smoothens the entire process. Here are practical tips to help employers and applicants get ready:
- Start Early and Stay Informed
- Begin gathering all required information well before the registration window opens on March 7, 2025.
- Monitor updates on the USCIS website to stay informed about any policy changes.
- Prepare both employer and beneficiary details to streamline the registration process.
- Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure the role qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Verify that the beneficiary has the necessary academic qualifications and relevant work experience.
- If necessary, obtain credential evaluations for degrees earned outside the U.S.
- Prepare Employer Documents
- Have all company details ready, including EIN verification and business registration information.
- Prepare an accurate job description that justifies the need for an H-1B employee.
- If applicable, complete and certify the Labor Condition Application (LCA) to confirm compliance with wage standards. Submitting a successful H-1B registration involves more than just meeting the USCIS H-1B registration deadline.
- Maximize Selection Chances with Strategic Planning
- Consider hiring professionals to review your registration and verify compliance with USCIS guidelines.
- Develop a detailed plan to submit registrations promptly, avoiding last-minute errors.
- Maintain transparent communication with beneficiaries regarding registration status.
- Be Ready for Post-Selection Steps
- If selected, you’ll have a limited window to submit Form I-129.
- Ensure all supporting documentation is complete and accurate to minimize delays.
Need guidance to prepare a strong H-1B registration? Reach out to Sweta Khandelwal for expert legal support and ensure your registration is handled with precision.
FAQs
- What is the H-1B application deadline for 2025?
The H-1B application deadline for the 2025 fiscal year registration was March 25, 2024. The registration typically opens in early March and closes within about two weeks.
- When is the H-1B registration for 2026?
The H-1B registration for the fiscal year 2026 will open on March 7, 2025, and close on March 24, 2025. Employers must submit their electronic registrations within this window.
- Where can I find USCIS H-1B news?
You can stay updated on the latest H-1B visa news by visiting the official USCIS website. They provide accurate information on registration updates, changes in policies, and important announcements. - What is the H-1B registration fee for 2026?
The H-1B registration fee for the fiscal year 2026 has been increased to $215 per registrant. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of registration submission.
Conclusion
If you’re feeling unsure as the USCIS H-1B registration deadline is reaching soon or simply want peace of mind, consider getting support from those who’ve successfully navigated the H-1B process countless times.
The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal can help you submit a strong registration, minimize errors, and boost your chances of selection. Got questions? Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal today. You’ll gain access to tailored legal advice and step-by-step guidance. When it comes to something as critical as your H-1B registration, having a trusted advisor like Sweta Khandelwal by your side is a choice worth making.
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.
