: Uscis h1b faq Below are answers to common questions about the selection process and timeline: When will selection results be available? USCIS will finalize and update all selection results by March 31. On myUSCIS, you will find: Up-to-date information about the application process for immigration benefits; Tools to help you prepare for filing and help finding citizenship preparation classes; and Information to help explore your immigration options. Learn about registration, deadlines, Form I-129, LCA, USCIS processing, and approvals. Aug 2, 2024 · Certain H-4 dependent spouses of H-1B nonimmigrants can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, if the H-1B nonimmigrant: Is the principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker; or Has been granted H-1B status under sections 106 (a) and (b) of the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-first Century Act of 2000 as amended by the 21st Feb 28, 2024 · For additional information and resources, please review updated information on the Organizational Accounts Frequently Asked Questions page. Trump signed a Proclamation, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” that took an important, initial, and incremental step to reform the H-1B visa program to curb abuses and protect American workers. The H-1B visa is an employer-sponsored visa. 28, 2024, USCIS launched organizational accounts that allow multiple people within a company or organization to collaborate on the preparation of H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and associated requests for premium processing. What is the purpose of the USCIS Final Rule regarding H-1B registrations? Answer: The purpose of the USCIS Final Rule is to implement a “beneficiary centric” selection process for H-1B registrations, address concerns about fraudulent use of the registration system, and enhance the integrity of the H-1B selection process. Jun 17, 2019 · All H-1B FAQs Q: I am already on an H1B visa in the U. Community forums and support groups – Connect with others on the same journey. Sep 20, 2025 · Complete GUIDE to President Trump's Executive Order on $100K fee for H1B Visa Holders. However, since it is a temporary work visa, H-1B holders must apply for extensions or renewals to continue working legally. Depending on the workload at the service center in charge of your petition, the I-129 takes between three and six months. This post explains the most complicated H1B visa concepts and simplifies them. labor market—particularly in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Jan 15, 2025 · The Department of Homeland Security’s H-1B final rule and H-2 final rule take effect on Friday, January 17, 2025, modernizing and improving requirements for the H-1B nonimmigrant and H-2 nonimmigrant visa programs. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will kick off the two-week H1B registration period on March 6, 2024. We recognize, however, that the shutdown may affect a petitioner’s ability to get required documentation (such as a labor condition application or a temporary labor certification from the U. Some I-140 categories allow aliens to self-petition. Feb 11, 2025 · The H1B registration period for fiscal year 2026 (FY26) is nearly upon us. After that, your employer will need to file the I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker to the USCIS. "travel," "extension Feb 15, 2024 · The H1B registration period for fiscal year 2025 (FY25) is nearly upon us. 2(e) through Apr 3, 2020 · Q: If the USCIS registration system crashes, malfunctions, or is otherwise unavailable, what is the backup strategy? A: USCIS will go back to paper processing in such case. Mar 14, 2025 · The H-1B electronic registration process for FY2026 introduces new USCIS organizational account enhancements, including paralegal flexibility, pre-populated forms, and streamlined data uploads. Jul 18, 2025 · On Feb. Sep 22, 2025 · Foreign workers fill a critical need in the U. To be eligible for an H1B visa, a person must H-1B FAQ Please visit the H-1B Specialty Occupation section for general information about the H-1B classification. Whe Mar 26, 2025 · Now that the FY2026 H-1B lottery registration window has officially closed, employers and their sponsored beneficiaries enter a period of anxious waiting for the selection results. Also, the "One-person-one-entry" rule is expected by 2026. 2. immigration laws apply to their particular situation. However, based on past Frequently Asked Questions About Processing Times General Why is my form type or office not listed? If your form type is not listed on the processing time webpage, you may submit an inquiry if your case has been pending more than six months. Creating and using this type of account is the subject of our webinar on Feb. Depending on the I-140 category, the employer generally files Form I-140 for the alien. 5 days ago · Besides the official USCIS website, consider these tools: USCIS Online Account – Manage your case and receive alerts. Must the H-1B petitioner establish that employment exists at the time of filing? A bona fide job offer must exist at the time of filing. We are working to develop Many of our tools and resources are available to the public. e. Mar 11, 2025 · Get all your H-1B FY 2026 questions answered in one place! This comprehensive FAQ guide covers electronic registration, and more. What are the benefits of Premium Process… Feb 20, 2024 · USCIS released FAQs for FY25 H-1B Organizational Accounts. H1B Filing Fee FAQS Can the beneficiary (employee/candidate) pay the fees associated with the H-1B sponsorship? The department must pay all required business expenses/filing fees associated with H-1B processing. Stay updated with the latest USCIS H1B FAQs. And, while there are a few minor changes to the registration system this Oct 1, 2025 · ALERT: USCIS will process H-1B, H-2A, and H-2B related Form I-129 petitions and CW-1 related Form I-129CW petitions during the government shutdown. Jun 11, 2024 · Are you planning to work in the United States in a specialty occupation? If so, you'll likely need an H1B Visa. Oct 20, 2025 · This nonimmigrant classification applies to people who wish to perform services in a specialty occupation, services of exceptional merit and ability relating to a Department of Defense (DOD) cooperative research and development project, or services as a fashion model of distinguished merit or ability. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has prepared this document as the small entity compliance guide required by section 212 of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996. S. Jun 27, 2025 · Staying updated on USCIS announcements for the 2025 cycle Follow the USCIS website for official updates on registration dates, selection processes, and any policy changes for the FY2025 H-1B season. Otherwise, we will indicate on this page that you must use the Final Action Dates chart to determine when you may file your adjustment of status application. Here's what employees and employers should know. Introduction and Purpose The U. The initial registration period for the FY 2025 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, and run through noon Eastern on March 22, 2024. In this post, we'll answer the top 10 most frequently asked questions about H1B Visas to help you understand the process better. Only the final rule can provide complete and definitive information Sep 7, 2024 · We issued a FAQ explaining this proclamation. If I change to a new company, am I subject to the H1B cap? A: No. Jan 17, 2025 · The “cap-gap” period starts when an F-1 student’s status and employment authorization expires and, unless terminated, ends on April 1 of the fiscal year for which the H-1B status is being requested or until the validity start date of the approved petition, whichever is earlier. What happens if the prospective beneficiary does not have a last name? What do you enter into the system? myUSCIS provides a personalized account to help you navigate the immigration process. Successor Requests to Use a Predecessor’s Approved Permanent Labor Certification When a company is bought, merged, changes corporate structure, or significantly changes owners, the new or reorganized company may demonstrate to USCIS that it can be considered a successor in interest (successor) of the original company to assume the predecessor’s prior immigrant benefits requests. May 18, 2021 · A. The appropriate type depends on the submitter’s role: Representatives will use the same type of representative account that is already available and may use an existing account. . 30, 2025. employers seeking highly skilled foreign professionals compete for the pool of H-1B visa numbers for which U. Apr 16, 2025 · Simplify the 2025 H-1B Filing process with this step-by-step guide. Questions and answers in this section are in no particular topic order. Please note that is a default timeframe for inquiring. You can find all USCIS news releases and alerts on our USCIS News webpage, searchable by topic and date. The petitioner has the burden of proof to establish Apr 8, 2025 · The submission of any mounted or retouched images will delay the processing of your application and may prompt USCIS to require that you appear at an Applicant Support Center to verify your identity. If such Feb 26, 2024 · 1. Individuals interested in obtaining H-1B status may wish to consult an immigration attorney for detailed information on how U. USCIS Tools and Resources – Guides, forms, and FAQs. We are dedicated to using as many available employment-based visas as possible in FY 2025, which ends on Sept. for individuals, families, and employers. Discover essential changes and updates for H1B visa holders to navigate the visa process efficiently. A specialty occupation requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge Jul 9, 2025 · You may use Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, to ask USCIS to classify an alien as someone who is eligible for an immigrant visa based on employment. The petitioner is required to attest under penalty of perjury on the H-1B petition and LCA that all of the information contained in the petition and supporting documents is complete, true, and correct. Apr 1, 2025 · On Jan. Jan 24, 2025 · The employment-based (EB) annual limit for fiscal year (FY) 2025 will be higher than was typical before the pandemic, though lower than in FY 2021-2024. Read on. On December 6, 2019, U. For example, USCIS noted that: An eligible H-1B worker can change ANSWER: Following the online registration period, USCIS will conduct a lottery. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you would like to study as a full-time student in the United States, you will generally need a student visa. The only fee that the employee may pay is the Premium Processing fee. 6 days ago · news | Immigration All you need to know about the H-1B visa: Cost, timeline, eligibility and more Every year, the initial registration for the H-1B visa lasts for a couple of weeks and happens in H-1B Frequently Asked Questions This information covers some commonly asked questions about the H-1B immigration status. The following practice pointer Oct 30, 2025 · General Information for All Requestors What Is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals? DACA Process Background Checks After USCIS Makes a Decision Initial Requests for DACA Renewal of DACA Travel Criminal Convictions Employment Authorization Miscellaneous I. 11. It also includes policy and procedure updates as well as late-breaking news about USCIS office closures and other emergencies. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). How does the beneficiary-centric … Get helpful instructions and tips from USCIS as you complete your form using our secure online filing system, avoid common mistakes, and pay your fees online. H-1B Electronic Registration Frequently Asked Questions Q. Jan 24, 2025 · The following information addresses common questions by individuals in H-1B nonimmigrant status, particularly related to applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, job changes or terminations, international travel, and dependent family members. Q: My new H1 was approved, but I have not gone to the consulate yet to get my H1 visa Nov 14, 2025 · If USCIS determines there are more immigrant visas available for a fiscal year than there are known applicants for such visas, we will state on this page that you may use the Dates for Filing chart. Jul 10, 2025 · H1B visa news: USCIS announced the second FY2025 H1B lottery on June 28. However, please request your lawyer to mark the package with “CHANGE OF EMPLOYER – NOT SUBJECT TO CAP” so that they do not think by mistake that you may be subject to the cap. 6 days ago · November 2025 USCIS Policy Changes and Their Impact on EB Green Cards USCIS policy shifts in late 2025 end the 540‑day EAD extension, add a $100,000 H‑1B payment, require electronic fees, and expand biometrics, raising costs and compliance burdens for employers and workers. General information, Company info, and Legal Representatives FAQs included. USCIS I-485 Processing Times vary widely but knowing what to expect helps reduce stress. Learn about key updates, registration requirements, and FAQs for employers and legal representatives navigating the H-1B lottery system. USCIS selects more H-1Bs than needed to meet the 85,000 H1B visa quota because many beneficiaries are sponsored by multiple employers and some employers fail to file H-1B petitions while other petitions are denied, withdrawn or revoked. However, in general, if you want to ask a question about a specific case using self-service tools, you should be:The applica USCIS is increasingly denying H-1B transfers filed inside 60-day grace period due to employer withdrawals,system misclassification errors. New Applicants vs Renewals? Effective Date, Common FAQs. General Information for All Requestors A. H1B Visa Faqs can be a key solution for you. With a low statutory limit of visa numbers Sep 21, 2025 · H-1B FAQ September 21, 2025 On Friday, September 19, 2025, President Donald J. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will kick off the two-week H1B registration period on 07. The H-1B visa provides a crucial pathway for skilled foreign workers to establish their careers in the United States. And, while there are some registration system enhancements this year, the core process of submitting Jan 24, 2025 · When nonimmigrant workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and, in some instances, may wrongly assume that they have no option but to leave the country within 60 days. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the implementation of an electronic registration requirement for employers seeking to file H-1B cap-subject petitions for fiscal year (FY) 2021. However, if a particular immigrant visa LCA Online Filing via FLAG System Overview of the H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 Temporary Programs H-1B The H-1B program allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in the U. This section contains answers to specific H-1B situations. 2025. Every year, U. ISO may still need several months to prepare the H-1B petition for filing. Sep 23, 2025 · Heavy new H-1B visa fee raises numerous questions, immigration law experts told CBS News. gov Jul 17, 2024 · USCIS provides FAQs addressing common questions by individuals in H-1B nonimmigrant status, particularly related to applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, job changes or terminations, international travel, and dependent family members. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) controls the allocation. Mar. What Is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals? As the Department of Homeland Security (DHS Jul 23, 2024 · U. If USCIS selects the registration submitted on your behalf, your registration status in the portal will show as “Selected,” and the sponsoring company will be eligible to file a full H-1B cap petition for you when the filing window opens. Department of Labor), which may delay their ability Jul 23, 2025 · On July 17, 2025, DHS-USCIS submitted for OMB review a proposed rule titled “Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions” (RIN 1615-AD01). Mar 7, 2025 · The H-1B electronic registration process for FY2026 introduces new USCIS organizational account enhancements, including paralegal flexibility, pre-populated forms, and streamlined data uploads. A request for premium processing affects only the processing time after the H-1B petition is filed with U. Submitting an H‐1B registration requires one of two types of USCIS online accounts. Mar 28, 2025 · Employers who wish to implement an electronic Form I-9 with an electronic signature function may re-create a Form I-9 that includes such a function, as long as the resulting form is legible; there is no change to the name, content, or sequence of the data elements and instructions; no additional data elements or language are inserted; and the standards specified under 8 CFR 274a. 31, 2024, USCIS published a final rule that, for the first time since 2016, adjusts certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees. This Proclamation: Jul 18, 2025 · If you are a prospective petitioner (also known as a registrant) seeking to file H-1B cap-subject petitions, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption, you must first electronically register and pay the associated H-1B registration fee for each prospective beneficiary. The guide summarizes and explains rules that DHS adopted, but it is not a substitute for any rule. FAQs Can I apply for the H-1B visa myself, without an employer? No. What is H-1B Visa Processing Time? The LCA is usually processed by the DOL within seven working days after submission. Since that time, we have seen three registration processes from start to finish, and the fourth was opened at noon (ET) on March 1, 2023. The U. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released frequently asked questions (FAQs) that address common questions by individuals in H-1B nonimmigrant status, particularly related to applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, job changes or terminations, international travel, and dependent family members. For faster search, we recommend you use the Windows search feature: Ctrl + F keys on the keyboard and enter keywords (i. See full list on dol. With the final rule, we can recover our operating costs more fully and support timely processing of new applications. Understanding the process—including timelines, required documentation, and potential challenges—is essential for avoiding gaps in employment or visa Mar 27, 2023 · U. Q: Can multiple legal entities under a group create multiple accounts for H1B visa registration? A: Yes, as long as each company has a separate federal tax ID number (FEIN). Oct 28, 2025 · USCIS provides resources and information on immigration, citizenship, and settling in the U. Review expiring benefits, confirm USCIS guidance, and file EADs, I-485, N-400, H‑1B changes, OPT, family petitions, and AR‑11 updates early in December to protect status and avoid higher fees or retrogression. You should not necessarily expect a decision in that timeframe. These are just a few of the many benefits that filing online offers. on a nonimmigrant basis in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. Aug 21, 2025 · The H-1B program allows companies and other employers in the United States to temporarily employ foreign workers in occupations that require the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty, or its equivalent. USCIS 2 days ago · Year-End USCIS Submissions: December Filings Before 2026 Fees December matters because filings received before January 1 use current fees, forms, and Visa Bulletin charts.

Uscis h1b faq. General Information for All Requestors A.