Overview
Because new cap-subject H-1B petitions are limited each fiscal year, timing is critical. USCIS typically runs an electronic registration period in the spring, conducts a selection (lottery) if registrations exceed the available numbers, and then accepts full petitions from selected registrants for an employment start date at the beginning of the next fiscal year (October 1).
Why planning ahead matters
Employers and candidates who prepare early — confirming the specialty occupation, gathering credential evaluations, and organizing supporting documents before the registration window — are far better positioned for a smooth filing. Missing the registration window generally means waiting until the next year.
Note: The exact registration dates, fees, and selection rules change from year to year. Confirm the current fiscal-year timeline and procedures on the USCIS website before relying on any dates.
How Do Law can help
We track the registration calendar, help employers plan candidate selections in advance, prepare strong petitions for selected registrants, and advise on backup strategies (such as cap-exempt employers or alternative visa categories) if a registration is not selected.