H-1B FY 2026 Registration Dates: Important Information for Employers and Applicants

As we approach the start of the fiscal year 2026, employers and foreign workers interested in the H-1B visa program should prepare for the upcoming H-1B FY 2026 Registration period, which will open on March 7, 2025, and close on March 24, 2025. This process is critical for individuals seeking employment in the U.S. in specialty occupations, as it is the first step toward obtaining an H-1B visa.

This blog will provide key details about the electronic registration system, fee requirements, and the overall process for the H-1B FY 2026 registration, helping employers and applicants navigate the timeline effectively.

What is the H-1B Visa?

The H-1B visa is one of the most sought-after employment-based visas in the U.S., allowing foreign workers to temporarily work in the United States in specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Common industries using the H-1B visa include technology, engineering, medicine, education, and business services.

Each year, the H-1B cap limits the number of new visas issued. For FY 2026, as in previous years, there will be a cap of 85,000 new H-1B visas, including 65,000 for regular cap applicants and an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions.

Due to the high demand for H-1B visas, USCIS uses a random lottery system to select eligible applications. Only those who are selected in the lottery will be able to proceed with the visa application process.

Key Dates for H-1B FY 2026 Registration

The registration process for the H-1B FY 2026 program is an electronic process that employers must complete to be eligible to submit H-1B petitions on behalf of their prospective employees. Here are the critical dates for the H-1B FY 2026 registration process:

• Registration Period Opens: March 7, 2025

• Registration Period Closes: March 24, 2025

• H-1B Cap Selection (Lottery): Following the registration period, USCIS will conduct the random lottery to select which applicants will be eligible to submit full H-1B petitions.

Electronic Registration Process

For the past few years, USCIS has used an electronic registration system to streamline the application process. The system allows employers to submit basic information about their H-1B applicants and then participate in a random selection process.

How the Electronic Registration Works:

1. Employer Creates a USCIS Account: Employers must create a USCIS online account through the myUSCIS portal to submit registrations for prospective H-1B applicants.

2. Submit Registrations for Employees: Employers will need to submit one registration for each employee they wish to sponsor for the H-1B visa. This includes basic information about the applicant, the employer, and the job offer.

3. Lottery Selection: Once the registration period closes, USCIS will conduct a random lottery to select the applicants who will be invited to submit a full H-1B petition.

4. Lottery Results: Employers will be notified if they have been selected in the lottery and may then proceed to file a complete H-1B petition with USCIS.

The electronic registration system significantly reduces the paperwork and fees associated with the H-1B application process by allowing USCIS to handle initial selections electronically before requiring the submission of more detailed petitions.

H-1B Cap Exemptions and Additional Categories

While the H-1B visa program has an annual cap, certain individuals and employers may be exempt from the cap. These exemptions include:

• Institutions of Higher Education: Employers who are institutions of higher education or affiliated with such institutions are typically exempt from the H-1B cap.

• Non-Profit Research Organizations: Employers that qualify as non-profit research organizations or governmental research organizations may also be exempt.

• H-1B Extensions: Individuals who have already held an H-1B visa and are seeking an extension are generally not subject to the cap.

Additionally, applicants with master's degrees or higher from U.S. institutions will be eligible for an additional 20,000 H-1B visas under the master's cap.

Steps Employers Should Take Now

If you are an employer planning to sponsor an H-1B visa for an employee in FY 2026, there are several steps to take before the registration period opens on March 7, 2025:

1. Create a myUSCIS Account: Employers must create an account on the USCIS portal before March 7. Make sure all contact information and details are up to date.

2. Prepare Required Information: Gather the necessary information for each employee you wish to sponsor. This includes personal details, job descriptions, and employer details.

3. Confirm Your Eligibility: Review the H-1B eligibility requirements for both your company and the foreign worker to ensure they qualify for the program.

4. Consult with an Immigration Attorney: The H-1B registration process can be complex, and competition is fierce. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure that all steps are completed accurately and timely.

5. Stay Updated: Watch for any updates from USCIS regarding the registration process. If any changes occur to the registration requirements or process, make sure you are aware and prepared.

Conclusion

The H-1B FY 2026 registration period is an essential opportunity for employers and foreign workers seeking to obtain an H-1B visa for specialty occupations in the United States. With the March 7–24, 2025 registration window approaching, it’s important to be prepared and understand the steps involved in the electronic registration process and fee requirements.

Given the high demand and limited number of H-1B visas available each year, it’s crucial to ensure that your registration is completed accurately and within the designated period. Employers interested in sponsoring foreign workers should consider consulting with experienced immigration attorneys to navigate the complexities of the registration process and increase their chances of success.

At Canero Fadul Reis Law, we specialize in helping employers and foreign workers understand the H-1B visa process. If you are looking to apply for an H-1B visa in FY 2026, contact us today for expert guidance and assistance with your application.