Understanding the H-1B Visa: A Guide for F-1 Visa Holders

The H-1B visa is a highly sought-after nonimmigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. For many international students on an F-1 visa, transitioning to H-1B status is a critical step in continuing their professional journey in the United States. With the FY2026 H-1B cap season approaching, here’s what you need to know.

Why the H-1B Visa Matters to F-1 Visa Holders

F-1 students often work under Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT, which provides temporary employment authorization after graduation. The H-1B visa offers a pathway to longer-term employment, allowing qualified individuals to work for up to six years, with the possibility of extending their status if they are pursuing permanent residency. The H-1B "cap-gap" extension further benefits F-1 holders by bridging the gap between OPT expiration and H-1B start dates.

H-1B Process and Important Dates

To successfully obtain an H-1B visa, applicants and their employers must follow a structured process and adhere to key deadlines:

Save the Date for the FY2026 H-1B Cap Season

March 7, 2025 – H-1B cap-subject registrations begin at noon EST.
March 24, 2025 – H-1B cap-subject registrations end at noon EST.
March 31, 2025 – USCIS to announce lottery selections.
April 1, 2025 – Filing for cap-subject H-1B petitions begins.
June 30, 2025 – Filing for cap-subject H-1B petitions ends.
October 1, 2025 – Start date for H-1B cap-subject beneficiaries.

Cap-Gap Extension for FY2026

USCIS has extended the cap-gap period, allowing F-1 students whose employers file timely H-1B petitions to continue working under OPT or STEM OPT. This extension moves the work authorization period from the usual September 30, 2025, deadline to April 1, 2026, ensuring a smoother transition for international graduates.

USCIS Filing Fees for FY2026 H-1B Cap Season

USCIS has revised filing fees for the upcoming H-1B cap season, impacting employers based on company size:

All Employers

H-1B registration fee: $215 (increased from $10)
Anti-fraud fee: $500
Premium Processing: $2,805 (optional)

Employers with 26 or More Full-Time Employees

Form I-129: $780
ACWIA Fee: $1,500
Asylum Program Fee: $600

Employers with 25 or Fewer Full-Time Employees

Form I-129: $460
ACWIA Fee: $750
Asylum Program Fee: $300

(*Some fees may not apply to nonprofit or 501(c)(3) organizations.)

Next Steps for F-1 Visa Holders

Consult Your Employer – If you are currently on OPT or STEM OPT, discuss H-1B sponsorship with your employer as soon as possible.
Prepare for the Lottery – Due to the annual cap, selection is not guaranteed. Ensure your registration is accurate and timely.
Stay Informed – Keep track of updates from USCIS regarding policy changes and procedural updates.

The H-1B visa remains a crucial avenue for international students seeking to establish their careers in the U.S. By understanding the process, deadlines, and costs, F-1 holders can better navigate their transition and secure long-term employment opportunities.

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