The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially unveiled new organizational accounts, transforming the landscape for collaborative efforts within companies or organizations engaged in the H-1B registration and petition processes. This strategic initiative aims to enhance efficiency and streamline interactions during the application process.
Here are key components outlined during the USCIS FY 2025 H-1B Electronic Registration Process Engagement Webinar held on February 21, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET.
I. New Organizational Accounts Information:
Improved H-1B Registration Process Platform Launch: The upgraded registration process is set to go live on March 4, 2024.
Passport Consistency: Beneficiaries are required to use the same passport for H-1B stamping and re-entry into the U.S. In cases of passport expiration or loss, a new passport copy must accompany the petition, along with an explanation for the change.
Paralegal Engagement: Paralegals are invited to join accounts through invitations and cannot independently create accounts.
Organizational Structure: Each organizational account must feature one company group and, at the minimum, one administrator. Individuals are restricted to a single online account and cannot participate in more than one company group.
II. Setting up an Account:
Unique Email Requirement: Each account must have a unique email address for identification.
Backup Code and Security Questions: Users are advised to save backup codes and security questions securely for future reference.
Draft Submission: Users can initiate applications and save them as drafts for future completion. The system automatically logs out inactive users after 15 minutes, with information securely auto-saved.
Submission Limits: 250 registrations can be made per submission. After 250 registrations, users will have to pay for the said registrations to submit additional registrations.
III. Duplicate Checker:
The duplicate registrations checker will verify submissions against previous registrations within the same account.
IV. Payment:
Registration Fees: H-1B registration fees remain at $10 for FY 2025.
Payment Options: Payments can be made using credit cards or U.S. bank accounts. Failed payments prompt users to rectify the issue within their USCIS account to maintain registration validity.
V. Tracking:
Notifications can be activated to receive updates or notices related to any application. Non-selection notices will be delayed until the conclusion of the CAP.
VI. Deleting Duplicate Registrations:
Duplicate registrations must be deleted before the FY 2025 CAP deadline on March 22, 2024. Failure to address duplicate registrations results in rejection and invalidation of all associated applications.
With these transformative updates, USCIS continues to advance the H-1B application process, offering a more collaborative, efficient, and user-friendly experience for stakeholders involved. As we embrace this evolution, it becomes increasingly crucial for applicants and their representatives to adapt to these changes, ensuring a seamless and successful application journey.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to support you through the petition process and address any concerns you may have.