In short:
- Reports highlighted missing signatures on Form G-28 for H-1B registrations.
- This glitch hindered applicants from completing the registration process.
- USCIS acknowledged the issue and decided to extend the registration deadline.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A Welcoming Extension for Aspiring Professionals
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has extended the initial registration period for H-1B visas for the fiscal year 2025 by three days due to a technical issue that obstructed users from finalizing their H-1B application.
Previously, USCIS addressed the problem stating, "At the moment, certain users are encountering difficulties in completing the H-1B registration process. We regret any inconvenience caused and are actively working to resolve the matter. The registration deadline will be extended. More information will be provided soon."
Originally scheduled to end on March 22, 2024, the deadline has now been pushed to March 25, 2024. This extension is particularly aimed at accommodating those affected by a recent temporary system outage (reports said that signatures went missing on Form G-28 for H-1B registrations), ensuring that every aspirant has sufficient time to submit their application.
March 31st - Date for Announcement of Selection Results
In this extension period, prospective petitioners and their legal representatives will make use of a USCIS online account to electronically register each beneficiary for the selection process and submit the required registration fee.
USCIS aims to inform those selected by March 31, 2024.
On February 28, 2024, USCIS launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts.
These accounts enable various members of an organization, along with their legal advisors, to work together on preparing H-1B registrations, petitions, and the associated Form I-907 for the Premium Processing Service.
Historical Data & FY 2025 Prediction
In 2022, Indians were granted 77% of the 320,000 H-1B visas approved. This year, USCIS expects approximately 350,000 applications, a reduction credited to enhanced fraud prevention efforts.
The previous year saw more than 400,000 duplicate registrations out of 759,000.
According to reports, USCIS is set to raise the filing fee for H-1B petition beneficiaries by 70%. Similarly, fees for L-1 petitions will increase by 201%, and O-1 petition fees will see a 129% hike.