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Latest Update on the H-1B Visa Application Process

2/11/19

By: Layli Eskandari Deal

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule implementing changes to the H-1B visa program for petitions filed under the H-1B cap (better known as the H-1B visa lottery).
The rule reverses the order whereby USCIS selects H-1B petitions for the standard allotment of 65,000 visas and the 20,000 visas allocated for the advanced-degree exemption. It also adds an electronic registration requirement for petitioners seeking to file H-1B cap-subject petitions. The final rule is scheduled to become effective on April 1, 2019.
Under the reverse selection process, USCIS will first select H-1B petitions for the general allotment of 65,000 visas. Then USCIS will select from the remaining petitions a number estimated to reach the advanced degree exemption. The reverse selection rule applies to petitions filed for the FY 2020 H-1B cap season (this year). The agency expects the lottery reversal to increase the number of individuals selected who possess an advanced degree from a U.S. institution.
The rule also implements an electronic registration requirement for H-1B cap-subject petitions which DHS has postponed until next cap season (FY 2021). Once implemented, it will require those seeking to file H-1B cap petitions to first electronically register with USCIS. Only petitioners whose registrations are selected will then be able to file an H-1B cap-subject petition.
For additional information related to this topic and for advice regarding how to navigate U.S. immigration laws you may contact Layli Eskandari Deal of the law firm of Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP at 770.551.2700 or LDeal@fmglaw.com.