USCIS Announces Key Changes for FY 2026 H-1B Cap Registration

Overview

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has unveiled significant Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 H-1B cap registration process updates. These changes aim to enhance efficiency and ensure the integrity of the H-1B program.

Registration Period

The initial registration period for the FY 2026 H-1B cap will commence at noon Eastern Time on March 7, 2025, and conclude at noon Eastern Time on March 24, 2025. During this window, prospective petitioners and representatives must submit their registrations through the USCIS online system.

Key Changes for FY 2026

1. Increased Registration Fee
   • The registration fee per beneficiary has been raised to $215, a substantial increase from previous years. This adjustment reflects USCIS’s efforts to cover operational costs and deter frivolous filings.
2. Mandatory USCIS Online Accounts
   • Employers and their representatives must now create and use USCIS online accounts to submit H-1B registrations. This mandate aims to streamline the registration process and enhance data security.
3. Enhanced Digital Filing System
   • USCIS has implemented a revamped digital filing system to improve user experience and reduce processing times. The new system offers a more intuitive interface and better support for registrants.
4. Stricter Selection Criteria
   • To maintain the integrity of the H-1B program, USCIS has introduced stricter selection criteria. These measures are intended to ensure that only qualified beneficiaries are selected, aligning with the program’s original intent.

Implications for Employers and Applicants

Employers planning to sponsor H-1B candidates for FY 2026 should familiarize themselves with these changes and prepare accordingly. Early account setup and understanding of the new system will be crucial to successfully navigating the registration process.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. What is the new H-1B registration fee for FY 2026?
   • The registration fee per beneficiary has been increased to $215.
2. When does the H-1B registration period for FY 2026 begin?
   • The registration period opens at noon Eastern Time on March 7, 2025.
3. Are USCIS online accounts mandatory for H-1B registration?
   • Yes, employers and representatives must use USCIS online accounts to submit registrations.
4. What are the key changes in the H-1B registration process for FY 2026?
   • Key changes include an increased registration fee, mandatory online accounts, an enhanced digital filing system, and stricter selection criteria.
5. How can employers prepare for the new H-1B registration process?
   • Employers should set up USCIS online accounts early, familiarize themselves with the new system, and ensure all necessary information is ready for timely registration.
6. What is the purpose of the increased H-1B registration fee?
   • The fee increase aims to cover operational costs and deter frivolous filings.
7. Will the enhanced digital filing system affect processing times?
   • The new system is designed to improve user experience and reduce processing times.
8. What do the stricter selection criteria entail?
   • USCIS has implemented measures to ensure only qualified beneficiaries are selected. However, specific details of the criteria have not been disclosed.
9. Is there a deadline for creating a USCIS online account for H-1B registration?
   • While no specific deadline is provided, it is advisable to create an account well before the registration period begins on March 7, 2025.
10. Where can I find more information about the FY 2026 H-1B registration changes?
    • Additional details and related announcements are available on the USCIS official website.

Staying informed about these updates is essential for employers and applicants navigating the H-1B cap registration process for FY 2026.