The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is revamping the H-1B visa system for the fiscal year 2025 to enhance fairness and security.
The changes include a focus on individual evaluations to prevent abuse and manipulation, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants.
The registration period is from March 6 to March 22, 2024, with an online filing option and a $10 registration fee.
The USCIS introduces measures to fortify integrity, reduce fraud, and streamline the process.
Applicants must now provide valid passport information, and the USCIS can deny or revoke petitions with false information. The USCIS will release an updated Form I-129 to accommodate these changes.
Another significant change is an increase in fees, effective April 1, with H-1B registration fees rising from $10 to $215.
The lottery process is modified to select beneficiaries rather than employers, promoting equal chances and preventing fraud. USCIS is urged to use additional revenue to reduce processing times and generously apply fee waivers.
The H-1B process is expected to become fully electronic by March 2024, with the beneficiary-based lottery registration process likely implemented in March 2024.
