Introduction
The H-1B visa program is a cornerstone of the U.S. immigration system, enabling U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. As of December 2025, several significant changes have been implemented to enhance the program’s integrity and efficiency. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current H-1B visa application procedures.
Recent Changes to the H-1B Visa Program
Introduction of the $100,000 Annual Fee
In September 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 annual fee for new H-1B visa applications, a substantial increase from the previous $215 fee. This fee aims to deter misuse of the program and prioritize American workers. Notably, this fee applies only to new visa petitions and does not affect existing H-1B visa holders re-entering the U.S. (apnews.com)
Elimination of Interview Waivers
Effective September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State requires all H-1B visa applicants, including those renewing their visas, to attend in-person interviews. This policy removes previous exemptions, such as age-based waivers, to strengthen national security and ensure thorough vetting of applicants. (visaverge.com)
H-1B Visa Application Process
1. Employer Registration
Employers seeking to hire foreign workers under the H-1B program must first register electronically with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process involves submitting basic information about the employer and the prospective employee. The registration period for the fiscal year 2026 opened from March 7 to March 24, 2025, during which USCIS received 343,981 eligible registrations for 85,000 available visas. (uscis.gov)
2. Selection Process
Due to high demand, USCIS conducts a lottery to select registrations randomly. In fiscal year 2026, the selection rate was approximately 35.3%, with 118,660 beneficiaries selected out of 336,153 applicants. This marks an increase from the previous year’s selection rate of 29%. (visaverge.com)
3. Petition Filing
Employers whose registrations are selected must file a complete H-1B petition on behalf of the beneficiary. This petition includes detailed information about the job position, the employer, and the foreign worker’s qualifications. The filing period for fiscal year 2026 began on April 1, 2025.
4. In-Person Interview
As of September 2, 2025, all H-1B visa applicants, including those renewing their visas, are required to attend an in-person interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. This policy aims to enhance security and ensure thorough vetting of applicants. (visaverge.com)
Key Considerations for Applicants
- Application Deadlines: Be aware of the specific dates for registration and petition filing to ensure timely submission.
- Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents, including educational credentials, employment history, and proof of the job offer.
- Interview Preparation: Since in-person interviews are now mandatory, applicants should prepare accordingly, understanding the types of questions that may be asked.
- $100,000 Annual Fee: Introduced in September 2025, this fee applies only to new H-1B visa applications.
- Mandatory In-Person Interviews: Effective September 2, 2025, all H-1B visa applicants must attend in-person interviews.
- Selection Rate Increase: In fiscal year 2026, the H-1B visa selection rate rose to 35.3%, up from 29% in the previous year.
- “Trump signs proclamation adding $100K annual fee for H-1B visa applications,” Associated Press, September 19, 2025.
- “H-1B visa in-person interview required starting September 2, 2025,” VisaVerge, December 16, 2025.
- “USCIS reports fewer FY 2026 H-1B cap season registrations,” VisaVerge, December 16, 2025.
- “H-1B Electronic Registration Process,” USCIS.
- “USCIS Announces Strengthened Integrity Measures for H-1B Program,” USCIS.
- H-1B Visa
- U.S. Immigration
- Visa Application Process
- Employment-Based Visas
- Immigration Policy
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Visa Fees
- Trump signs proclamation adding $100K annual fee for H-1B visa applications, Published on Friday, September 19
- Lottery bids for skilled-worker visas plunge in the US after changes aimed at fraud and abuse, Published on Tuesday, April 30
- New H-1B visa fee will not apply to existing holders, official says, Published on Saturday, September 20
Conclusion
The H-1B visa program has undergone significant changes aimed at enhancing its integrity and ensuring that it serves its intended purpose of bringing skilled workers to the United States. Prospective applicants should stay informed about these developments and adhere to the updated procedures to navigate the application process successfully.
Key Facts
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Subcategory
Visas & Permits
Readability Level
College