The H-1B registration window for FY 2026 just opened! Here’s what you need to know to be prepared for this year's H-1B lottery:
Registration Details
Registration Period: March 7, 2025, at 9am PT – March 24, 2025, at 9am PT
Electronic Registration Fee: $215 per person, nonrefundable, payable via pay.gov.
Employer Requirements: Employers must register through myUSCIS.gov and if an attorney is also involved, coordinate with them.
Important Considerations
Each foreign worker can only be entered once in the lottery, requiring valid passport or travel document information.
USCIS has implemented strict measures to deny or revoke H-1B visas for false information or unpaid fees.
Some H-1B applications may now have flexible employment start dates beyond October 1.
As a lawyer with 10+ years of experience in handling H-1B cases, I strongly recommend starting preparations early to avoid last-minute issues.