U.S. employers with international personnel on OPT have an upcoming deadline they need to meet regarding employees they would like to retain. USCIS is accepting registrations for the H-1B cap lottery. Registrations must be completed by 11 am CST on March 24, 2025. U.S. employers hiring international employees should review their workforce now to determine eligibility.
Important Dates:
March 7 – March 24, 2025: Register your intent to file for eligible employees with USCIS account and pay the $215 per registration fee.
By March 31, 2025: USCIS will announce lottery selections. If selected, employers may file H-1B petitions starting April 1.
Steps to Take Now
Before registering, employers should evaluate:
Whether the role qualifies as a specialty occupation.
If the candidate meets the educational requirements, specifically, a Bachelor Degree in a specific field, or equivalent.
Whether the employer can meet the prevailing wage for the position.
If any exemptions apply.
Additional Resources
For guidance on the H-1B process, check out:
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. It is not legal advice applicable to a specific situation. Viewing it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Ana McMullen
Law Clerk
