The H-1B visa lottery process for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 is approaching, and USCIS has introduced key changes that employers and foreign workers must be aware of. Whether you are an employer looking to sponsor an employee or an applicant hoping to secure an H-1B visa, understanding these updates is crucial for a smooth registration process.

H-1B Lottery Registration Timeline

The H-1B initial registration period for FY 2026 will open at noon (ET) on March 7, 2025, and will close at noon (ET) on March 24, 2025. Employers must submit electronic registrations for prospective H-1B employees within this period.

Major Change: Beneficiary-Centric Selection Process

A significant change for the FY 2026 lottery is the shift to a beneficiary-centric selection process. This means:
✅ Each foreign worker can only be entered into the lottery once.
✅ Employers must submit valid passport or travel document information for each beneficiary.
✅ USCIS will use this information to prevent duplicate registrations and increase fairness in the selection process.

Step-by-Step H-1B Registration Process

If an employer wishes to file an H-1B petition for a worker, they must complete the following steps:

1. Online Registration

Employers must register electronically using the myUSCIS.gov portal.

2. Pay the Registration Fee

• A $215 non-refundable registration fee is required for each foreign worker entered into the lottery.
• Payments must be made online via pay.gov at the time of registration.
• If working with an attorney, employers must coordinate the fee payment process with them.

3. Provide Required Information

During registration, employers will need to submit:
✅ Employer Details: Name, Employer Identification Number (FEIN), and business address.
✅ Employer Representative Contact Information
✅ Beneficiary (Foreign Worker) Information:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Country of birth & citizenship
• Gender
• Passport number or travel document information
• Whether the beneficiary has a master's degree from a U.S. institution (to determine eligibility for the master's cap)
  ✅ Attorney Information: If applicable, the details of the attorney assisting with the filing.

Important Considerations for Employers

🔹 USCIS will strictly enforce new rules: Any H-1B petition containing false information or an unpaid registration fee will be denied or revoked.
🔹 Flexible Start Dates: For selected petitions, USCIS has confirmed employers may request a start date beyond October 1, 2025, offering flexibility for business needs.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates aim to make the H-1B selection process fairer and more transparent, reducing the risk of multiple registrations for the same individual. Employers and foreign workers must be diligent in providing accurate information and ensuring compliance with all new guidelines.

Need Help Navigating the H-1B Process?

At Delgado Law Group, we practice employment-based immigration and are committed to helping businesses and skilled professionals successfully navigate the H-1B lottery process. Our firm offers:
✔  Guidance on H-1B compliance and eligibility
✔ Seamless electronic registration and filing support
✔ Assistance with employer sponsorship and compliance strategies

📞 Contact us today at 561.342.1429 or 📧 [email protected] to schedule a consultation and ensure your H-1B filings are handled with precision.

🔹 Stay ahead of the H-1B process—let's get your registration ready!