The H-1B visa is a popular option for foreign nationals seeking to work in specialty occupations in the United States. However, obtaining an H-1B visa can be competitive due to a quota system implemented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This quota is known as the H-1B cap.
H-1B Cap Season 2025
The H-1B cap season for fiscal year 2025 (FY 2025) has already passed. The key dates for FY 2025 were:
- Registration Period: March 6, 2024 (noon Eastern) to March 25, 2024 (noon Eastern)
- Selection Process: USCIS conducts a lottery to select petitions from the registered candidates sometime in March or April.
- Petition Filing: Employers can begin filing petitions for selected beneficiaries from April 1, 2024.
Important to Note:
- The information above applies to the FY 2025 cap season, which has already concluded.
- The H-1B cap is reset each fiscal year, so you’ll need to wait until the next registration period to apply for an H-1B visa under the cap.
Looking Ahead: FY 2026 H-1B Cap Season
While the exact dates for the FY 2026 H-1B cap season haven’t been announced yet, they typically follow a similar timeframe. You can expect the registration period to open sometime in early February 2025 and close in mid-March 2025. USCIS will announce the official dates well in advance.
Here are some resources to stay informed about the H-1B cap:
- USCIS H-1B Electronic Registration Process: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations-and-fashion-models/h-1b-electronic-registration-process
- USCIS News and Updates: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/all-news
If you’re interested in applying for an H-1B visa under the cap in the future, it’s important to start planning early. Familiarize yourself with the process, gather the necessary documentation, and consider consulting with an immigration attorney for guidance.