H-1B Visa open till March 22 for FY 2025: Here’s how Indians can register online

Under the new rule, H-1B registrations will now be selected based on unique beneficiaries rather than through registration. Consequently, employers must now furnish valid passport information or valid travel document details for each beneficiary during registration, along with a $10 fee.

During a recent briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed concerns regarding H-1B visa procedures and the backlog of green card applications, underscoring President Joe Biden’s commitment to resolving issues within the legal immigration framework.

Recently, the USCIS introduced myUSCIS organisational accounts on February 28th, 2024 and announced the H-1B registration for the United States for the fiscal year 2025 online. It has commenced on March 6, 2024, and is set to conclude on March 22, 2024.

👀🚨CORRECTION: Registration for the fiscal year 2025 H-1B cap is now open and closes on March 22, 2024. We apologize for the confusion. https://t.co/6weKZAFxqo

— USCIS (@USCIS) March 18, 2024

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The H-1B registration process for FY 2026 will be conducted electronically through the USCIS website. Given the significant changes in the application process, here is a step-by-step guide for employers and representatives to create the appropriate USCIS online account to apply for an H1-B visa before the deadline.

Step 1: Determine your account type

There are three types of accounts relevant to the H-1B Visa:

• Applicant/petitioner/requestor account: This account type is commonly utilised by individuals to compile and submit applications, petitions, or other benefit requests. Nevertheless, it is important to note that this specific account type *cannot be employed for the preparation or submission of H-1B registrations*.
• Attorney/representative account: An attorney or accredited representative handling H-1B registrations for a potential petitioner, choose this account type. They can also submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative.
• Organisational account (formerly registrant account): This account is required for prospective petitioners to engage in the H-1B registration process, irrespective of whether they will enlist an attorney or accredited representative for registration submission.

Step 2: Create USCIS Online Account:

• Visit the USCIS website for online account creation: https://myaccount.uscis.gov/.
• Select the appropriate account type based on your role: Organisation or Legal Representative.
• By following the on-screen instructions to create your account. This includes providing your email address, creating a password, and answering security questions.

Step 3: Key considerations and mistakes to avoid with H-1B online registration

a. Select the right type of account

b. Avoid duplication and entering the same beneficiary more than once.

c. Registration fee: $10

d. Important dates:

• February 28th, 2024: Petitioners and registrants can begin creating H-1B registrant accounts at noon Eastern.
• March 6th, 2024: H-1B registration period opens at noon Eastern.
• March 22nd, 2024: H-1B registration period closes at noon Eastern.
• March 31st, 2024: Date by which USCIS intends to notify selected registrants.
• April 1st, 2024: The earliest date that FY 2025 H-1B cap-subject petitions based on the registrations selected during the initial FY 2025 selection period may be filed.

The H-1B cap season for the fiscal year 2025 is focused on enhancing the application process through a modernised online registration system and a beneficiary-centric approach. This initiative aims to streamline procedures and promote fairness and efficiency within the competitive H-1B visa program.