The 2025 H-1B Visa Lottery Results Are In! What’s Next for Applicants?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently completed the initial electronic registration selection process for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap, including those under the advanced degree exemption. With the process now complete, USCIS has begun notifying prospective petitioners whose registrations have been selected, granting them eligibility to file an H-1B cap-subject petition.
Your Registration Status
Each registrant will now find their online account updated with one of several statuses, each indicating the next steps for their H-1B visa application:
- Submitted: Your registration is still in the running for selection in any subsequent lottery rounds for FY 2025.
- Selected: Congratulations! You are eligible to file an H-1B cap petition.
- Not Selected: Unfortunately, your registration was not chosen for this fiscal year.
- Denied – Duplicate Registration: Registrations for the same beneficiary by the same registrant are invalidated due to duplication.
- Invalidated – Failed Payment: Your registration was not processed due to payment issues.
- Deleted: The registration was removed and is no longer under consideration.
- Processing Submission: USCIS is reviewing your submission; updates will follow.
Arrive Podcast Episode 50: FY 2025 H1B Visa Lottery Discussion
Filing Your H-1B Cap Petitions: Starting April 1, 2024
For those with selected registrations, the window to file your H-1B cap-subject petition opens on April 1, 2024. This is an exclusive opportunity for registrants chosen to take the next step toward obtaining their H-1B visa. Filing your petition correctly and at the designated location, along with the appropriate fees, is crucial to avoid setbacks.
New Fees and Form Editions
April 1, 2024, also brings new fee adjustments for most immigration applications and the introduction of the updated Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. To be considered valid, ensuring that your petition includes the correct fees and the latest form edition is essential.
What If You’re Filing on Paper? Changes to the Filing Location
Starting April 1, 2024, H-1B Form I-129 petitions will be directed to USCIS lockbox locations instead of service centers. This change requires attention to detail when mailing petitions to ensure they are sent to the correct address.
Notice Delays and Next Steps
It’s worth noting that increased filing volumes can delay receiving your Form I-797 Notice of Action. If you have confirmation of delivery but have not received this form within 30 days, it is recommended that you reach out to the USCIS Contact Center for guidance.
Conclusion
Completing the initial H-1B visa lottery selection for FY 2025 is the first step in the H-1 B visa process. Understanding your registration status, preparing your petition carefully, and staying informed about the latest requirements is critical to the next steps. As always, consider seeking advice from legal experts specializing in immigration to ensure your application complies with all necessary guidelines and deadlines.
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We Can Help!
You may have questions regarding the H1B Visa Lottery. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
