Several updates and changes will take effect for the H-1B registration period beginning in March 2025 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. These changes are part of broader efforts by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to modernize the H-1B process, enhance compliance and address inefficiencies in the program.

 

Changes to H1B Electronic Registration Process in March 2025

 

The following are taking effect for the 2026 FY program:

 

Increased Electronic Registration Fee

 

One of the most significant changes is the increase in the electronic registration fee. The fee has risen from $10 to $215 per beneficiary. This adjustment reflects USCIS’s efforts to cover administrative costs and improve processing efficiency. Employers should account for this increase when planning their budgets, especially if they intend to register multiple beneficiaries.

 

Stricter Measures to Prevent Duplicate Filings

 

USCIS has implemented enhanced measures to prevent duplicate filings by employers for the same beneficiary. Any employer submitting multiple registrations for the same candidate will face disqualification from the lottery. Employers must carefully review their registrations to ensure compliance with this rule, as violations could result in penalties or future ineligibility.

 

Revised Form I-129 Requirements

 

While the electronic registration remains the initial step, the revised Form I-129 will become mandatory for petitions filed after selection.

USCIS has issued the following alert:

 

On Jan. 17, 2025, we will publish a revised edition of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (edition date: 01/17/25) to align with the recently announced H-1B modernization final rule and the H-2 modernization final rule. Because there will be no grace period, we are providing a preview version of the 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 and its instructions.

Effective Jan. 17, 2025, we will reject Form I-129 petitions received using the 04/01/24 edition of the form. If you file Form I-129 on paper by mail, please note that:

• We will accept the 04/01/24 edition of Form I-129 if it is received before Jan. 17, 2025;
• We will not accept the 04/01/24 edition of Form I-129 if it is received on or after Jan. 17, 2025; and
• We will only accept the 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 if it is received on or after Jan. 17, 2025. 

 

The updated form includes new fields aimed at increasing transparency and providing additional information about the employer, job, and beneficiary. Employers must familiarize themselves with these changes to avoid errors during the petition filing phase.

 

Enhanced Digital Processes

 

USCIS is continuing its push toward greater digitization of the H-1B process. Employers will see expanded options for electronic submission of supporting documents during the registration period. This change aims to reduce processing delays and streamline communication between USCIS and employers.

 

Expanded Audit and Compliance Reviews

 

To ensure fairness and prevent fraud, USCIS will conduct more frequent audits and reviews of H-1B registrations during the March 2025 registration period. Employers must maintain accurate records and provide truthful information during the registration process to avoid penalties.

 

How Employers Should Prepare

 

Employers and applicants are advised to familiarize themselves with the changes and take the necessary preparatory steps, such as:

 

• Budgeting for the Increased Fee: The $215 per beneficiary fee should be factored into overall hiring costs. Large-scale employers registering multiple candidates must account for the financial impact.
• Double-Checking Submissions: Carefully review all registrations to ensure there are no duplicate filings for the same beneficiary. Internal coordination is essential to comply with the stricter rules.
• Using new Form I-129: Begin training relevant staff and legal teams on the new petition requirements to ensure smooth transitions from the registration phase to petition filing.
• Monitor ingDeadlines: Stay aware of the registration window, which typically occurs in early March. Late registrations will not be accepted.

 

 

Need assistance?

 

For specialist guidance with any aspect of the H1B program, including application support, contact our US immigration attorneys.