USCIS Announces New Electronic H-1B Registration Process

Earlier this month, USCIS has announced it will implement a new H-1B registration process for the fiscal year 2021. Essentially, the new law states that every H-1B cap-subject petitioner who is filing an FY 2021 H-1B cap petition is now required to register electronically with USCIS. Each H-1B submission requires a $10 fee per applicant. Though some people have argued that this would disproportionally affect immigrants, the law actually requires the employers, or those petitioning for the immigrant labor, to pay forth the $10 fee. That being said, it is also worth noting that those who submit duplicate registrations may have their applications denied, or, in some cases, even face legal ramifications. Some of the specifics dealing with the conversion to the electronic application process are as follows:

• All prospective petitioners with selected registrations must now file an FY 2021 cap-subject petition exclusively for the alien identified in the registration. This must be done within the filing period given on the notice of eligibility
• The H-1B registration final rule asserts that if USCIS receives more than “x” number of registrations, they will select the projected number as needed to reach the FY 2021 H-1B numerical allocations after the primary registration period closes at random. From there, USCIS will notify all those with selected registrations by March 31, 2020.

What is the purpose of the H-1B program?

The H-1B program is designed to assist nonimmigrants who are looking to work in the United States. Unfortunately, many people from around the world seek to work in the United States, which is why this program is generally reserved for those who can work in certain “specialty occupations.” Some of the most common fields of specialty occupations include engineering, education, medicine, biotechnology, architecture and more. An H-1B visa grants individuals the ability to work in the United States for up to three years. However, if your visa expires or is going to expire, you may apply for a 3-year extension.

Unfortunately, if you quit your job or are fired, your visa will most likely expire. All those who think they may qualify for an H-1B visa must reach out to our experienced New Jersey immigration attorney as soon as possible. We know how overwhelming the immigration process can be, which is why we are genuinely here to help you, the client, every step of the way.

Contact our experienced New Jersey firm

We understand how much is on the line when clients face matters related to immigration. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for matters regarding immigration, please contact the Law Offices of Salvatore A. Falletta, LLC and we would be happy to provide you with assistance. Our firm is located in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.