The H-1B visa program is a crucial pathway for skilled professionals seeking to work in the United States. Understanding the H-1B registration process, including the H-1B electronic registration fee, is vital for prospective petitioners and beneficiaries. This guide provides an overview of the process, updates for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, and insights into combating fraud in the registration process.
What is the H-1B Electronic Registration Process?
Introduced to streamline the process, the H-1B electronic registration process requires prospective petitioners, including those applying for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption, to first register electronically and pay a $10 H-1B registration fee for each beneficiary. This initiative aims to reduce paperwork, exchange data efficiently, and offer overall cost savings for employers filing H-1B cap-subject petitions.
How Does the H-1B Selection Process Work?
After the initial registration period, which lasts a minimum of 14 calendar days each fiscal year, the H-1B selection process is conducted on properly submitted registrations. Notably, selections are made after the initial registration period has closed, eliminating the need to register on the first day. Only those with selected registrations will be eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition.
FY 2024 H-1B Cap Registration Process Update
On March 27, 2023, the USCIS announced that it had received sufficient electronic registrations during the initial period to reach the FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations, including the master’s cap. Due to the need for additional registrations to meet the numerical allocations, a second round of random selections was conducted by July 31, 2023. In this round, 77,600 registrations were selected for the FY 2024 H-1B cap.
The number of registrations submitted has seen a significant increase over the years. For FY 2024, the USCIS observed an increase in registrations on behalf of beneficiaries with multiple submissions and those with a single registration, indicating a growing trend.
Key Stats from the FY 2021-2024 Registration Periods
- The number of total registrations has escalated from 274,237 in FY 2021 to 780,884 in FY 2024.
- The selections have also varied, with 188,400 for FY 2024 demonstrating the program’s dynamic nature.
These figures underscore the intense competition and interest in the H-1B visa program.
Addressing Fraud in the H-1B Registration Process
With the rising number of multiple registrations for the same beneficiaries, concerns about attempts to unfairly increase chances of selection have emerged. The USCIS has reiterated its commitment to deterring and preventing abuse of the registration process.
At the time of registration submission, each prospective petitioner must sign an attestation under penalty of perjury, affirming the truthfulness of the information, the legitimacy of the job offer, and that there has been no collaboration to submit multiple registrations unfairly. Violations of this attestation can lead to denial or revocation of petitions and potential referral to federal law enforcement for investigation and action.
The Impact of Investigations
Through extensive investigations into fraud from the FY 2023 and FY 2024 cap seasons, USCIS has taken action by denying and revoking petitions and making law enforcement referrals. These measures are believed to be influencing a decreased filing rate for FY 2024 H-1B cap petitions.
Upcoming Improvements to the H-1B Program
The USCIS is working on modernizing the H-1B program, including improvements to the registration process to reduce misuse and fraud opportunities. This initiative indicates a move towards a more secure, fair, and efficient process for all parties involved.
Reporting Suspected Fraud
If you suspect any form of fraud or abuse in the H-1B registration process, USCIS encourages reporting through their online tip form. This collective effort helps maintain the integrity of the program.
Conclusion
The H-1B visa program is instrumental in meeting the needs of the U.S. labor market by allowing skilled professionals to work in the country. Understanding the intricacies of the H-1B registration process, staying updated with the latest changes, and adhering to the rules are crucial for successful participation in the program. With ongoing improvements and stringent measures against fraud, the H-1B program continues to evolve to better serve the economy and maintain its fairness and integrity.
This Article In A Nutshell:
The H-1B visa program is vital for skilled professionals in the U.S. Understanding the electronic registration and $10 fee is key. Results show rising interest with FY 2024 having 77,600 registrations. Recent efforts combat fraud ensure program integrity. Stay updated, comply with rules, and report any suspected misuse for a fair H-1B process.
