Welcome to our latest blog post, in which we delve into the recent updates announced by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the H-1B visa program. Aiming to enhance program integrity for the fiscal year 2025, these changes are pivotal for employers and foreign professionals. Let’s break down what these updates mean for you.
1. Beneficiary-Centric Selection Process
The new H-1B registration process now prioritizes individual applicants, ensuring a fairer and more transparent selection. Each applicant will be evaluated based on unique identifiers such as passport information, reducing the potential for fraud.
2. Flexibility in Employment Start Dates
USCIS now offers more flexibility in setting the employment start dates for H-1B petitions. This change allows filings to request start dates after October 1 of the relevant fiscal year, offering more planning convenience for employers and employees.
3. Enhanced Integrity Measures
USCIS has strengthened its ability to deny or revoke petitions with false information or invalid registrations, mainly where registration fees are not adequately processed. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of the H-1B visa program.
4. Registration Fee and Form I-129 Updates
The registration fee for the FY 2025 cap will remain at $10. However, future adjustments are expected. A new edition of Form I-129 will be introduced, reflecting these updates, and will be the only accepted form starting April 1, 2024.
5. Key Registration Dates for FY 2025
Mark your calendars! The initial registration period for the FY 2025 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, and close at noon Eastern on March 22, 2024. Registration must be done electronically through the USCIS online account.
6. Online Filing and Organizational Accounts
The introduction of organizational accounts within the USCIS online system will facilitate collaboration on H-1B registrations and petitions. This update also includes the availability of online filing options for non-cap H-1B petitions.
Conclusion
These changes signify a shift towards a more transparent, fair, and efficient H-1B visa program. Both petitioners and beneficiaries should stay informed and prepared for these updates.
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