The H-1B visa registration period for the fiscal year 2025 concluded on March 24, 2025, after a 14-day window that started on March 7, 2025. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will notify selected applicants by March 31, 2025. Those chosen will have 90 days to submit their H-1B petitions.
The next H-1B visa registration window is expected to open in March 2026, as it traditionally takes place around the same time each year. However, potential policy changes under Donald Trump’s administration could impact the process, with any modifications to be announced by USCIS.
Employers are required to pay a $215 fee for each H-1B registration. Before submitting Form I-129 to USCIS, they must obtain certification for a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the US Department of Labor.
The H-1B visa allows foreign workers to remain in the United States for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of extending their stay for another three years, bringing the maximum duration to six years. Once this limit is reached, individuals must leave the country or seek a change of status.
Eligible applicants for the H-1B visa include foreign professionals with at least a bachelor’s degree who have been offered a temporary professional position by a US employer. The annual quota for these visas is 65,000, with an additional 20,000 allocated to individuals holding advanced degrees from US institutions.
Workers already holding valid H-1B status do not need to reapply through the lottery system. Instead, they can request an extension or a change of status without undergoing the registration process again.
Changes to the H-1B registration process may occur under Donald Trump’s administration, potentially affecting fees, eligibility, or timelines. Any updates will be communicated through the USCIS website.
USCIS will notify applicants of their selection status by March 31, 2025. Those chosen will have 90 days to submit their petitions for the fiscal year 2026. Employers should monitor updates closely to ensure timely submission.
Each year, 65,000 H-1B visas are issued, with an additional 20,000 visas available for individuals who have earned advanced degrees from US institutions. Due to high demand, these visas are allocated quickly, making early registration important.
