H-1B FY 2026 Registration Window Unveiled: Key Dates for Employers

USCIS Announces H-1B Cap Registration Timeline for Fiscal Year 2026

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has unveiled the registration timeline for the H-1B cap season for Fiscal Year 2026. Employers seeking to hire foreign professionals under the H-1B visa program should take note of the following key dates:

H-1B Registration Period

The initial registration period for the FY 2026 H-1B cap will open on March 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time and close on March 24, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. During this window, petitioners and registrants can create H-1B registrant accounts starting in February 2025.

Selection and Petition Filing

USCIS will send electronic notifications to all registrants with selected registrations by March 31, 2025. Only petitioners with selected registrations will be eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration.

The registration process is a crucial step in determining the beneficiaries who will be allocated the 65,000 visas available for the regular cap and the additional 20,000 visas for individuals with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.

Preparing for the H-1B Cap Season

Employers and immigration attorneys should start preparing their H-1B cap registration cases well in advance. This includes gathering required documentation, reviewing eligibility criteria, and ensuring compliance with all USCIS forms and procedures.

It's essential to stay updated on any changes or additional guidance from USCIS regarding the H-1B cap registration process. Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can help employers navigate the complexities of the H-1B visa program and increase their chances of a successful registration and petition.

For more information on the H-1B visa and other work visa options, explore our comprehensive immigration guide or contact our office for personalized assistance.