USCIS Extends Initial Registration Period for FY 2025 H-1B Cap
In a recent update that is critical for many around the world hoping to work in the U.S. under the H-1B visa, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made a significant announcement. The initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap has been extended. This extension provides prospective petitioners and their representatives additional time to prepare and submit their applications, amidst a temporary system outage that some registrants experienced.
What Are the New Dates?
The initial registration period, which commenced at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, was initially set to conclude at noon Eastern on March 22, 2024. However, USCIS has now extended this deadline to run through noon Eastern on March 25, 2024. This extension aims to accommodate those affected by the temporary system outage, ensuring everyone has ample time to complete their registrations.
How to Register?
Prospective petitioners and their representatives must utilize a USCIS online account to register each beneficiary (the individual being sponsored for an H-1B visa) electronically for the selection process. Additionally, there is an associated registration fee for each beneficiary that needs to be paid during this process. It’s important to note that USCIS still plans to notify selected registrants by March 31, 2024, maintaining the anticipation for thousands of applicants and businesses alike.
Introduction of New MyUSCIS Organizational Accounts
As part of enhancing the registration and application process, on February 28, 2024, USCIS launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts. These accounts are designed to allow multiple individuals within an organization, alongside their legal representatives, to collaboratively work on and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service. It’s crucial for organizations planning to sponsor H-1B workers to set up a new organizational account to participate in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process. For more detailed information and resources, users are encouraged to check the updated information on the Organizational Accounts Frequently Asked Questions page.
Available Assistance for the New Process
To further assist organizations and legal representatives in navigating through the new process, USCIS initiated Tech Talks sessions in February 2024. These sessions provide a platform for individuals to ask questions related to the organizational accounts and the online filing of Form I-129 for H-1B petitions. USCIS encourages all stakeholders involved in the H-1B registration and petition filing process to attend these sessions to ensure a smooth and informed application process.
Conclusion
The extension of the FY 2025 H-1B registration period is a welcome development for many aspirants and their sponsors. It reflects USCIS’s commitment to addressing technical issues and ensuring a fair opportunity for all applicants. As the new deadline approaches, it is crucial for applicants and their representatives to make the most of the extended period and the available resources provided by USCIS to ensure their applications are accurately and promptly submitted.
With these changes and support, the H-1B registration process for FY 2025 is set to be more accessible, allowing talented individuals from around the globe an opportunity to bring their skills to the U.S. workforce. As always, staying informed and prepared is key to navigating the complexities of the H-1B visa process successfully.
This Article In A Nutshell:
USCIS extends FY 2025 H-1B cap registration deadline to March 25, 2024, aiding those affected by system outage. Prospective petitioners should use MyUSCIS accounts for electronic registration, with Tech Talks sessions available for guidance. This extension ensures fair opportunity for applicants aiming to work in the U.S., emphasizing preparedness and timely submission.
Read more:
- Complete Guide to H1B Cap 2025 Registration: USCIS Process Detailed Start to Finish
USCIS Account Upgrade: Introducing the New Online Organizational Account for H-1B Filing
