H-1B Visa: 2025 USCIS has made major changes to the H-1B visa selection process for FY 2025. The new beneficiary-centric system has reduced fraud and has already reduced registration numbers by 38 per cent. Each beneficiary is allowed only one registration.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made significant changes to the H-1B visa selection process for fiscal year 2025, which are meant to promote fairness and transparency. The new beneficiary-centric system, which prioritizes individual beneficiaries over employer-submitted applications, has already proven effective in preventing fraud and reducing registration numbers by 38 percent. Let us know what important changes have been made.
Beneficiary-Centric Selection System
The main change in the H-1B process is the move to a beneficiary-centric selection system. Previously, employers could submit multiple registrations for the same beneficiary, increasing their chances of selection, but under the new system, each beneficiary is only allowed one registration, no matter how many employers submit registrations for them. This adjustment ensures a more equitable process, where all beneficiaries have an equal chance of being selected.
As USCIS explained, this reform aims to eliminate the advantage previously enjoyed by employers who submitted multiple applications for the same candidate. According to USCIS, "the new process ensures a fairer and more transparent selection, reducing the ability to manipulate the system."
38% reduction in unfair registrations
According to a TOI report, these changes have already had a significant impact on the FY 2025 H-1 registration period. USCIS received a total of 479,953 registrations, of which 470,342 were deemed eligible. However, this is significantly lower than the 758,994 eligible registrations in FY 2024, i.e. it represents a significant reduction of 38.6%. Moreover, the average registrations per beneficiary dropped from 1.70 in FY 2024 to 1.06 in FY 2025, indicating that attempts to gain unfair advantage have been minimized.
In FY 2025, around 442,000 unique beneficiaries were registered, almost identical to the 446,000 in FY 2024. The number of employers remained stable at around 52,700, similar to the previous year. However, the key point is that the number of registrations has dropped dramatically, indicating the success of the new system in preventing abuse.
Incorrect submission of information will have consequences
Another important aspect of the reform is the implementation of stricter fraud prevention measures. USCIS now expects registrants to provide valid passport information for each beneficiary. This additional verification level is meant to eliminate attempts at fraudulent or duplicate registrations.
USCIS has made it clear that any registrant who attempts to misrepresent information will face serious consequences, including disqualification of their petitions and possible legal action. "We are committed to ensuring that only those who follow the rules have a fair chance at selection," USCIS confirmed.
Registrations will be evaluated on merit and validity
For employers and applicants, the new system means a streamlined and more transparent process. Fewer registrations and a focus on fairness will reduce uncertainty and competition induced by strategic bulk submissions. As USCIS continues to improve its selection process, applicants can expect a more predictable and fair system. Employers can move forward with confidence knowing that their registrations will be evaluated on merit and validity.Positive Impact Expected to Continue
With the successful implementation of a beneficiary-focused process, the future of the H-1B selection system looks bright. These changes not only improve the overall integrity of the program but also establish the US as a leader in attracting global talent. As USCIS continues to monitor and improve the system, the agency is dedicated to ensuring that only the most qualified individuals are selected to contribute to the US workforce.
The reforms implemented are expected to continue to have a positive impact as the FY 2026 registration period approaches, ensuring that the H-1B visa process remains competitive, fair, and transparent in the years to come.