At the end of January, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented new measures to strengthen the H-1B visa program and reduce fraud. Among the changes included were updates to the H-1B registration process, online filing options for H-1B forms, and fee increases.
The USCIS Director, Ur M. Jaddou hopes that these new changes will make the H-1B selections more equitable for petitioners and beneficiaries.
What is the H-1B Visa?
The H-1B Visa is a work visa available to U.S. foreigners who have been hired by U.S. companies to complete specialized work. To qualify for the H-1B visa you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in the specialty
- Minimum education level required for the position
- Have the education ability or higher to complete the specialized work
To learn more about if you qualify for an H-1B Visa, click here.
H-1B Registration Final Rule
As a way to reduce fraud during the H-1B registration, the selection process will become more equitable and “beneficiary-centric”. This means that the selections will be based on unique beneficiaries, as opposed to registrations as a whole. This new approach will ensure that every beneficiary has an equal opportunity to be selected.
In 2025, a passport or valid travel document will be required for registering in the H-1B lottery.
H-1B Fee Increases
The USCIS has implemented large fee increases for H-1B visa applications:
- The H-1B petition fees will increase from $460 to $780.
- The H-1B registration fee will increase from $10 to $215.
Both of these fee increases will be implemented on April 1, 2024.
The premium processing fees for filing Form I-907 also increased from $2,500 to $2,805 on February 26, 2024.
Reeves Immigration Can Help You Navigate the H-1B Visa Process
The H-1B visa application process is complex and involves both you and your potential employer. You should consider professional immigration lawyers to ensure that everything is done correctly. Our immigration attorneys can help you navigate your H-1B visa process.
Get in touch with our attorneys at Reeves Immigration Law Group to help complete your H-1B visa application process with confidence and peace of mind.
