Securing an H-1B visa is a significant step in advancing your career in the United States. As we approach the 2025 application cycle, understanding the latest updates will help you navigate the process smoothly and improve your chances of success. Here's what you need to know.

1. New Form I-129—Make Sure You're Using the Right One

Starting January 17, 2025, USCIS requires all H-1B petitions to use a newly redesigned Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker). This aligns with efforts to modernize the H-1B process. Any petitions filed using the old version will be rejected, so it's critical to use the correct form.

2. Stronger Oversight to Prevent Fraud and Misuse

USCIS has enhanced compliance measures to ensure that employers and H-1B workers meet all program requirements. These measures aim to prevent fraud and protect the integrity of the system, ensuring that opportunities go to highly skilled professionals who meet the program's criteria.

3. No More Itinerary Requirement—Less Paperwork for Employers

Previously, employers had to submit a formal itinerary outlining their employee's work locations. This requirement has been eliminated, making the process simpler—especially for companies that need to place employees at multiple job sites.

4. Increased Scrutiny on Job Offers—They Must Be Real and Relevant

USCIS is more strictly evaluating whether the offered job is genuine and available when the H-1B status begins. If you'll be working at a third-party site, the job must qualify as a specialty occupation—meaning it requires specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field.

• Employers may need to submit contracts, client agreements, or other proof that the job actually exists.

5. New Rules for Beneficiary-Owners

If you are an owner of the company sponsoring your H-1B visa, you can still qualify. However, USCIS will now limit the first two H-1B approvals to 18 months each, instead of the usual three-year period. This affects startup founders and entrepreneurs who apply for an H-1B through their own companies.

6. USCIS Has Official Authority to Conduct Site Visits

USCIS has formally established its authority to conduct site visits, ensuring that job offers and employer-employee relationships are legitimate.

• If an employer refuses to cooperate, USCIS may deny or revoke the H-1B petition.

• Employers must be prepared to provide evidence that they are complying with program rules.

7. Key H-1B Registration Dates for FY 2026

The H-1B cap registration period for Fiscal Year 2026 will open on:
📅 March 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET and close on March 24, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET.

• Employers must register online and submit required details about the prospective employee within this timeframe.

8. Big Increase in H-1B Registration Fees

USCIS has significantly increased the H-1B registration fee from $10 to $215 per application.

• This fee is non-refundable, even if your registration is not selected.

• Employers should budget accordingly to accommodate this higher cost.

9. Beneficiary-Centric Selection Process Continues

To reduce fraud and duplicate filings, USCIS will continue using its beneficiary-centric selection process.

• This process prevents multiple registrations for the same beneficiary and helps create a fairer lottery system.

10. The H-1B Visa as a Path to a Green Card

Many H-1B workers use this visa as a stepping stone toward permanent residency (a green card).

• If your employer is willing to sponsor you, the H-1B visa can lead to a long-term future in the U.S., allowing you to stay and continue contributing your skills.

• You may qualify for the EB-2 or EB-3 employment-based green card categories.

What These Changes Mean for You

The H-1B program is evolving, with changes aimed at improving transparency, preventing abuse, and making the process more efficient.

• If you're an H-1B applicant, staying informed and ensuring your employer follows all the new rules is crucial.

• Employers must be prepared for increased compliance checks and higher registration costs.

Need Help With Your H-1B Application?

Navigating the H-1B process can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. The team at World One Law Group is here to help you with everything from registration to compliance and long-term immigration planning.

📞 Contact us today for expert legal guidance on your H-1B visa journey.