H-1B Visa Registration Deadline: What Immigration Lawyers Need to Know
The annual registration period for the H-1B visa program has concluded for the fiscal year 2026. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) closed the online registration period on March 24, 2025. If the number of registrations exceeds the annual cap, a computer-generated lottery will determine the successful applicants, with results expected in early April.
Filing H-1B Petitions for Selected Registrants
Employers whose registrations are selected in the lottery can proceed to file complete H-1B petitions for their prospective employees starting on April 1, 2025. This fiscal year's cap remains at 85,000 visas, comprising:
• 65,000 visas for individuals with bachelor's or higher degrees
• 20,000 visas for individuals with U.S. master's degrees or higher
It's crucial for employers and immigration attorneys to carefully prepare and submit the required documentation, such as the Form I-129, Labor Condition Application (LCA), and supporting evidence, to maximize their chances of securing an H-1B visa for their beneficiary.
Importance of H-1B Visas for U.S. Employers
The H-1B visa program is a vital avenue for U.S. companies to attract and retain highly skilled foreign professionals in specialty occupations. It allows employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in positions that require specialized knowledge and a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
Immigration lawyers play a crucial role in guiding employers through the complex H-1B visa process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements, and maximizing their chances of success in the highly competitive annual lottery.
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