If you were selected in the 2025 H-1B visa lottery, congratulations—but this is only the first step toward securing legal work authorization in the United States. Your next steps will depend largely on your sponsoring employer, who must file a complete H-1B petition with USCIS. Below are the key stages in this process.

📅 1. Filing the Full Petition (Form I-129)

After being notified of your selection, your employer must submit a full H-1B visa petition (Form I-129) to USCIS. The deadline for submission is June 30, 2025.

It’s important to note that USCIS no longer accepts paper petitions directly at service centers. All paper Form I-129 filings must be sent to designated “lockbox” addresses listed on the USCIS website.

📄 2. Required Documentation for Filing

To successfully file the petition, the employer must include the following documents:

• A job offer letter detailing the position, qualifications required, and explanation of how it qualifies as a “specialty occupation”
• A certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the U.S. Department of Labor
• Signed Form I-129 by the employer
• Copies of degrees and transcripts verifying the candidate’s qualifications
• Evidence of the company’s existence and business premises
• A copy of the candidate’s valid passport or other travel document

💰 3. Fees and Payment

The employer is responsible for paying the following USCIS fees:

• Base filing fee: $460
• Fraud prevention and detection fee: $500
• Additional fees: May apply to employers with over 50 employees if more than 50% of them hold H-1B or L-1 status

An optional Premium Processing service is available for $2,500, which guarantees USCIS review within 15 calendar days.

🕒 4. Waiting for a Decision

Once the petition is filed, USCIS will review the case and may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) for additional documentation.

If the petition is approved, USCIS will issue Form I-797A, which confirms H-1B status.

Keep in mind: even after winning the lottery and submitting a petition, visa approval is not guaranteed—it depends on the accuracy and completeness of the petition and supporting documents.

📆 5. H-1B Visa Start Date

If approved, the H-1B visa becomes effective on October 1, 2025. The employee can begin working in the U.S. only on or after this date.

It’s critical for both the employer and the employee to comply with all visa conditions, including the designated worksite and job responsibilities.

⚠️ Important Reminders

• Save your confirmation number: The confirmation number received during lottery registration is required to track your petition status.
• Meet all deadlines: Failing to file the petition by the deadline may result in denial.
• Seek legal guidance:
  It’s strongly recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure the petition process is handled properly.

📚 Sources

• USCIS H-1B Electronic Registration Process
• H1B Lottery Guide 2025 | NNU Immigration
• H1B Visa Cap FY 2025 – Tech Pro Hire LLC
• H-1B Visa – Wikipedia

⚠️ This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a qualified immigration attorney.