Exciting opportunities and significant changes are on the horizon for those navigating the U.S. immigration landscape. Here’s what you need to know:

USCIS Fee Increases

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing fee increases for employer petitions and sponsorship of permanent residence. These adjustments come in response to rising costs since the last update in December 2016. While Congress doesn’t provide annual funding for benefits processing, occasional supplemental funding is granted to USCIS.

Effective Date: April 1, 2024

Key Changes Include:

• Visa Fee Increase: Visa fees will rise from $10 to $110, effective April 1.
• H-1B Registration Fee Hike: Registration fees for H-1B visas will increase from $10 to $215.
• Employer Fees Increase: Minimal changes are expected for employers hiring high-skilled foreign nationals, with proposed increases ranging from 70% to 201% for various petitions.

H-1B Lottery Process Change

In addition to fee adjustments, USCIS is introducing a final rule altering the H-1B visa registration selection process. Here’s a breakdown of the changes:

H-1B Lottery Changes:

• The lottery system will prioritize individual beneficiaries over employers, ensuring equal opportunities for selection.
• This change aims to prevent fraudulent practices and will be effective for the H-1B cap in fiscal year 2025.

Ready to Apply for an H-1B Visa?

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