H-1B & H-2 Visa Final Rules Take Effect Jan. 17, 2025
The new H-1B and H-2 visa final rules take effect on January 17, 2025, along with an updated Form I-129. Learn about key changes, filing deadlines, and how to stay compliant.
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Buffalo: (716) 970-4007 | Toronto: (866) 697-1832
The new H-1B and H-2 visa final rules take effect on January 17, 2025, along with an updated Form I-129. Learn about key changes, filing deadlines, and how to stay compliant.
The DHS has modernized the H-1B program to clarify specialty occupation requirements, improve flexibility for employers and workers, and strengthen program integrity. Key changes include updated rules for cap-exempt organizations, automatic extensions for F-1 students changing to H-1B, and stricter compliance measures such as site visits and bona fide job verification. These updates aim to align the H-1B program with modern workforce needs while maintaining fairness and transparency.
USCIS has reached the FY 2025 H-1B visa cap, including the 65,000 regular visas and 20,000 master’s cap. Learn about next steps for registrants and ongoing petitions.