H-1B Cost Calculator | VisaVerge Tools
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H-1B Cost Calculator
FY 2026 Updated

H-1B Visa Cost Calculator 2025-2026

Plan your budget for the FY 2026 H-1B visa application process. This calculator includes all USCIS fees, optional premium processing, attorney fees, and dependent costs to give you a complete cost estimate.

FY 2026 Fees $215 Registration Fee Dependent Costs Premium Processing
01

Application Details

02

Processing & Legal Fees

03

Dependents (H-4 Visa)

Estimated Total Cost
$0
Cost Breakdown

FY 2026 Key Dates

Note: Registration period runs March 7-24, 2025.
Feb 28, 2025
USCIS account setup begins (noon ET)
Mar 7-24, 2025
H-1B registration period
By Mar 31, 2025
USCIS notifies selected registrants
Apr 1 - Jun 30
Filing period for selected petitions
Jul - Aug 2025
Possible second lottery
Oct 1, 2025
Earliest employment start date

FY 2026 Fee Structure

Update: Registration fee increased from $10 to $215.
  • Registration Fee: $215 (non-refundable)
  • Base Filing Fee (I-129): $780
  • Asylum Program Fee: $600 (most employers)
  • ACWIA Fee:
    • 1-25 employees: $750
    • 26+ employees: $1,500
  • Fraud Prevention: $500
  • Premium Processing: $2,805 (optional)
  • Public Law Fee: $4,000 (certain employers)

Common Questions

What is the H-1B visa?
A non-immigrant visa allowing U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree or higher.
What are the H-1B quotas?
65,000 regular visas annually, plus 20,000 for individuals with U.S. advanced degrees (master's cap).
When can H-1B work begin?
For cap-subject petitions, work can begin no earlier than October 1, 2025 for FY 2026.
What costs must employer pay?
Employers must pay USCIS filing fees, fraud prevention fee, and ACWIA fee. Attorney fees may be split.
Is premium processing worth it?
It guarantees a response within 15 calendar days. Recommended for time-sensitive cases or when certainty is needed quickly.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on published USCIS fees for FY 2026. Actual costs may vary. Fees are subject to change. Consult with an immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.