Understanding the Registration Process for H-1B Visas

 Posted on February 19, 2021 in Immigration

With registration for H-1B visas approaching in March, it is important to understand eligibility requirements and the process for obtaining them. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, the H-1B is a visa in the United States that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. Typically, these jobs require specialized knowledge and a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience. The average duration is three years, but they can be extended to six years in some cases, after which the visa holder may need to reapply. Immigration laws limit the number of H-1B visas that are issued each year, so for those foreign nationals seeking an H-1B visa, it is important to properly complete the registration.

Bodies of Work

The H-1B nonimmigrant classification applies to individuals who wish to perform duties in a specialty occupation, services of exceptional merit, the ability for a Department of Defense (DOD) research and development project, or services as a fashion model of distinguished merit or ability.

H-1B specialty occupations can be performed in the following fields:

• Architecture

• Engineering

• Mathematics

• Physical Sciences

• Social Sciences

• Healthcare/Medicine

• Education

• Business/Accounting

• Legal

• Theology

• Fine Arts

Electronic Registering Tips

In 2020, USCIS implemented an electronic registration process for the H-1B cap, which has streamlined processing by reducing paperwork and data exchange. In addition, it has provided cost savings to employers looking to file H-1B cap-subject petitions. Individuals must first create a USCIS account online before submitting an H-1B registration. The initial registration period for the fiscal year 2022 opens at 12 pm Eastern Time (ET) on March 9, 2021, and will run through 12 pm ET on March 25, 2021. Representatives as well as registrants must wait until March 9 to create and complete their H-1B registrations. It is imperative that a representative or an attorney help a registrant review the company information. There is a $10 non-refundable registration fee for a single beneficiary. USCIS will notify selected registrants by March 31.

At USCIS.gov, a registrant can check his or her status, which could be any of the following:

• Submitted

• Selected

• Not Selected

• Denied

• Invalidated/Failed Payment

Contact a DuPage County Immigration Lawyer

An H-1B Visa may be integral to you or your loved one entering or remaining in the United States. At Unzueta Law Group, P.C., we understand how complex immigration laws and processes can be, especially when it involves enhancing your future opportunities and your quality of life. Our dedicated and compassionate DuPage County immigration attorneys will provide the legal representation you need for your case. Call our office today at 630-509-2363 to schedule a private consultation.

Sources:

https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations-dod-cooperative-research-and-development-project-workers-and-fashion

https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations-and-fashion-models/h-1b-cap-season