2025 H-1B Visa Cap Reached: What You Need to Know

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the congressionally mandated H-1B visa caps for fiscal year (FY) 2025 have been met. This includes the 65,000 regular H-1B visas and the 20,000 advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap.

What Happens Now?

Here’s what happens next and what it means for applicants and employers:

  • Non-Selection Notices: USCIS will send notices to registrants not selected through their online accounts in the coming days. The status of unselected registrations will update to:
    • Not Selected: Not eligible to file an H-1B cap petition based on this registration.

Ongoing H-1B Petitions

Although the cap has been reached, USCIS will continue to accept and process petitions that are exempt from the cap, such as:

  • Extensions for current H-1B workers to remain in the U.S.
  • Changes to the terms of employment for current H-1B workers.
  • Employer changes for current H-1B workers.
  • Concurrent H-1B employment in additional positions.

What Employers Should Know

The H-1B visa program allows U.S. businesses to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. Employers should plan for future cap seasons and stay updated on H-1B news to prepare for next year’s registrations.

Conclusion

If you weren’t selected in this year’s H-1B cap, planning for future opportunities and exploring alternative visa options is essential. Staying informed about updates and seeking professional advice can help you navigate the immigration process effectively. Please schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers for specific advice.

Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer

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We Can Help!

If you have questions regarding an H1B Visa, 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.

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