Key Insights into 2025’s H-1B Visa Policy Shifts

Overview

The H-1B visa program underwent significant changes for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, impacting employers and prospective applicants. These policy shifts aim to enhance the program’s integrity and efficiency.

Major Policy Changes

1. Fee Adjustments:
   • H-1B Base Filing Fee: Increased to $780, effective April 1, 2024.
   • Asylum Program Fee: A new $600 fee per I-129 form, applicable from April 1, 2024.
   • Premium Processing Fee: Raised to $2,805, with processing times reduced to 15 business days, effective February 26, 2024.
2. Registration Fee:
   • The H-1B registration fee remains at $10 for FY 2025 but will increase to $215 in the following fiscal year.
3. Application Process Enhancements:
   • Implementation of a beneficiary-centric selection process to prevent multiple registrations for the same individual.
   • Mandatory use of USCIS online accounts for all registrations.

Implications for Stakeholders

Employers and applicants should prepare for increased costs and adapt to the updated registration procedures. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for compliance and successful petition outcomes.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. What is the new H-1B base filing fee for FY 2025?
   • The base filing fee has increased to $780, effective April 1, 2024.
2. When does the new asylum program fee take effect?
   • The $600 asylum program fee per I-129 form is effective from April 1, 2024.
3. What are the changes to premium processing for H-1B visas?
   • Effective February 26, 2024, the premium processing fee has increased to $2,805, and processing times have been reduced to 15 business days.
4. Is the H-1B registration fee changing for FY 2025?
   • It remains at $10 for FY 2025 but will increase to $215 in the following fiscal year.
5. What is the beneficiary-centric selection process?
   • A system was implemented to prevent multiple registrations for the same individual, ensuring a fairer selection process.
6. Are USCIS online accounts mandatory for H-1B registration?
   • Yes, all registrations must be submitted through USCIS online accounts.
7. How do these changes affect employers?
   • Employers will face increased fees and must adapt to the updated registration procedures to ensure compliance.
8. What should applicants do to prepare for these changes?
   • Applicants should stay informed about the new fees and processes and ensure timely and accurate submission of their applications.
9. When will the H-1B registration fee increase to $215?
   • The increase is scheduled for the fiscal year following FY 2025.
10. Where can I find more information about these H-1B policy changes?
    • Detailed information and related announcements are available on the USCIS official website.

Understanding these policy shifts is essential for effectively navigating the H-1B visa process in FY 2025 and beyond.