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US H-1B Visa Registration Starts 7 March for FY2026

The USCIS has announced the US H-1B Visa registration dates for FY2026. From 7 March, applicants’ employers can submit a registration till 24 March. The decision notifications will be released on 31 March.

For FY2026, the beneficiary-centric selection process will be followed as announced last year. This will help choose unique candidates rather than by registration.

The H-1B is a US temporary work visa that helps recruit foreign skilled workers needed in the local US labor market. Every year, the immigration department announces registration and selection dates for the employer to apply. The selected candidates are sent a notification through the account used for the online registration. They must apply for the work visa then inside 90 days of the notification.

This means the H-1B visa allows for temporary employment in the U.S. While the employer and the nonimmigrant employee may consider the possibility of permanent employment in the future, the process initially involves applying for an immigrant visa for the employee.

H-1B Registration for Fiscal Year 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the registration period for the fiscal year 2026 H-1B Cap. The registration will begin at noon Eastern on March 7, 2025, and will remain open until noon Eastern on March 24, 2025. As confirmed by the USCIS, the registration process is as follows:

  • Employers can register each beneficiary for the selection process.
  • The associated registration fee must be paid electronically.
  • USCIS will notify employers of their selections via their online accounts by March 31, 2025.
  • Selected beneficiaries will have 90 days to submit their H-1B petitions.
  • The visa start date for approved petitions is October 1, 2025.

By adhering to these guidelines, employers and beneficiaries can ensure a smooth and timely application process for the H-1B visa.

Eligibility Requirements

a) Professional Qualifications

  • The position offered must require professional skills and services.
  • The worker must possess the necessary professional credentials.
  • A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is required.
  • The employee must hold the required degree or an equivalent qualification to receive H-1B approval.

b) Employer-Employee Relationship

  • The employer must establish a direct employer-employee relationship, ensuring the employee receives a regular salary.
  • The employer must pay at least the prevailing wage or the actual wage (whichever is higher) for the position in the specific geographic area.
  • The employee must receive the standard benefits offered by the employer.

c) Compliance and Obligations

  • The employer must confirm that there are no ongoing strikes, lockouts, or work stoppages in the occupation where the H-1B employee will be placed.
  • If employment is terminated before the authorized H-1B period expires, the employer must cover the cost of return transportation for the employee.

d) Job-Specific Nature of H-1B

  • The H-1B is specific to the employer, position, and location.
  • Employees cannot work for another employer without completing the H-1B petition process and obtaining USCIS approval or a receipt notice.
  • Unauthorized employment can result in loss of eligibility for current and future U.S. work or immigration opportunities.

A list of companies suitable for an H-1B visa can be found here.

By following these guidelines, both employers and employees can ensure compliance with H-1B regulations while exploring long-term employment possibilities in the U.S.