H-1B: Unprecedented Third Round Selection

On November 19, USCIS conducted a third round of selection of H1B registrations to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations.

USCIS selected randomly from electronic registrations submitted during the 2021 registration window.

This is the first time USCIS has had to conduct a third round of selections, since the full allocation for the FY 2021-2022 has still yet to be met. The annual H-1B cap is set at 65,000, with a further 20,000 for applicants who completed their Masters in the US.

The first round was conducted in March 2021, followed by a second round in July 2021.

Those who have been successful in this latest round see their status updated on their myUSCIS accounts, along with new information about when and where to file.

Registration selection only only allows for the worker to proceed to file their full petition for adjudication; it does not guarantee or indicate the visa will be granted.

The rules on H-1B filing are strict. It is not possible to file your H-1B petition online. You must submit a printed application to the correct service center within the relevant filing period, which for this third round of the lottery is February 23, 2022. Your application must also include a print out of the relevant registration selection notice and evidence of your eligibility under the visa requirements.

Applicants selected now would be allowed to start working in the US starting October 2022.

US immigration advice

NNU Immigration are specialist London-based US immigration attorneys. If you have any queries or concerns about a US visa application, such as the H1B, speak to our US immigration specialists.

This article does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only.