If you’re one of those people who dreams of working in the United States, this article is written especially for you. Applying for a visa is probably the most tedious part of moving to the United States. It’s a long and meticulous process that ends up being frustrating, but very important for companies seeking alternatives abroad.
The American dream doesn’t stop, but it’s not so easy to achieve, and now the clock is ticking. So, if you’re one of those who wants to apply for this visa in 2025, you must pay attention to the official dates announced by USCIS, because yes, it could be your last chance to apply for the H-1B Visa.
What is the H-1B Visa?
Okay, this visa is designed to allow U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in highly specialized positions, that is, professionals who are qualified with at least a university degree. So, to apply, it’s not enough just to dream, you’ll have to meet certain requirements.
Requirements to apply for the H-1B visa
- Have a valid job offer (obviously) in a specialized occupation.
- Have a university degree that can be validated or that is equivalent to the degrees required in the United States.
- If you don’t have a degree, you’ll be able to prove work experience related to the position you’re applying for (each year of study is equivalent, in this case, to three years of work experience in the applicant’s country of origin).
But pay close attention from now on because not all applicants get the visa, and in fact, it’s not easy at all. It is, in fact, a lottery. Yes, exactly as you read. If you thought the process was almost as simple as applying for a tourist visa… You’re very wrong.
A lottery that decides your future
That’s right, and you didn’t read it wrong. We already hinted at it above, but yes, luck will be the one to decide whether you come to earn a living in this country or not. When the number of visa applications exceeds the annual cap, USCIS holds a random lottery to select those who applied and were placed in a reserve status.
How many applications are assigned each year?
Well, here comes the “madness”: only 85,000 visas are assigned each year. Of that number, 65,000 are for the standard cap, and 20,000 for those who hold advanced degrees from U.S. universities. And when demand exceeds that number, the lottery takes place, the system randomly selects who continues the process and who is left without a spot.
Is there a deadline?
Yes, and USCIS has implemented a pre-registration that serves to simplify the process and better manage the lottery moment.
- Employers must register their workers on the digital platform during the following dates:
- Registration opens (noon Eastern Time): March 7
- Registration period closes (noon Eastern Time): March 24
- Worker selection: March 31
But on April 1, a new call will open to submit applications for fiscal year 2026 for those registered and selected in the first phase.
Here are some tips:
- Prepare your documentation in advance. Make sure your paperwork, degrees, certificates, and work experience are organized, translated, and validated.
- Find an employer willing to sponsor you (don’t apply by your own, because it will be much harder for your application to be accepted).
What if you’re not selected?
There are many more legal ways to emigrate or work in the United States, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the visa on your first try. Also, some employers re-submit their candidates if they weren’t selected. Get ready and good luck!
