H-1B visa registration for 2026 closes today; step-by-step application process
What's the story
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is closing the initial registration for the fiscal year 2026 H-1B visa cap today.
Eligibility
Who can apply for an H-1B visa?
The H-1B visa program allows employers to temporarily employ non-immigrant workers in specialized fields that require a high degree of skill and at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent. It also covers fashion models of exceptional merit and ability. However, there are limits on new visas annually, usually 65,000 each fiscal year with exemptions for some candidates.
Exemptions
Additional exemptions and petition process for H-1B visa
Another 20,000 petitions are exempt for candidates with a master's degree or above from an American school. Some cases might be eligible for exemptions based on H-1B1 set-asides and particular agreements. The petition process has three major steps: First, the employer files a Labor Condition Application (LCA); Second, they submit Form I-129 with USCIS after LCA certification; Finally, the worker applies for a visa or status adjustment based on where he/she is.
Adjustments
Visa or status adjustments
If the worker is located outside the US, they must apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate. If the worker is already in the US with a valid status, they need to request a change of status instead of applying for a visa. Regardless of their visa status, the worker must apply for admission to the US under the H-1B classification through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).