The fiscal year 2026 H-1B cap season is approaching, offering U.S. employers the opportunity to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. Understanding the key dates, processes, and recent changes is essential for a successful application.
Key dates and registration process
The initial registration period for FY2026 opens at noon Eastern Time on March 7, 2025, and closes at noon Eastern Time on March 24, 2025. During this window, employers must register each prospective H-1B candidate electronically through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) online system and pay a $215 registration fee per beneficiary.
Selections will be announced by March 31, 2025, and selected applicants can begin filing their petitions starting April 1, 2025. The employment start date for approved H-1B beneficiaries is October 1, 2025.
Increased registration fee
This season, USCIS has increased the H-1B registration fee from $10 to $215 per applicant. Employers should account for this change in their budgeting and ensure timely payments during the registration process.
Beneficiary-centric selection process
USCIS continues to use the beneficiary-centric selection process introduced in the previous fiscal year. Under this system, each beneficiary is entered into the selection pool once, regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf. This approach aims to provide a fairer chance for all applicants.
Cap allocations and exemptions
The H-1B visa program has an annual cap of 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 visas available for individuals holding advanced degrees from U.S. institutions. Certain employers, such as institutions of higher education and nonprofit research organizations, may be exempt from these caps. It’s important to determine your organization’s cap status before proceeding with the registration.
Preparing for the registration period
To ensure a smooth registration process:
- Create a USCIS online account: Employers without an existing account should set one up promptly to avoid delays.
- Gather necessary information: Collect all required details for each beneficiary, including educational credentials and occupational information.
- Stay informed: Regularly check the USCIS website for updates or changes to the H-1B program.
By staying organized and proactive, you can navigate the FY2026 H-1B cap season effectively and increase the likelihood of a successful petition.