H-1B Cap Season: What the 2026 Timeline Actually Looks Like

Every year we hear the same question in early spring: 'Did I miss it?' The H-1B cap process runs on a predictable but unforgiving calendar, and most of the stress we see could be avoided with earlier preparation.

The process begins with electronic registration, typically in March, where employers submit basic biographical information for each prospective candidate. No petition is filed at this stage — it's a lottery entry, not an application.

If selected, the employer has a filing window (usually 90 days) to prepare and submit the full H-1B petition, including the Labor Condition Application, supporting evidence of the specialty occupation, and proof of the beneficiary's qualifications.

The most common cause of a rushed, weaker filing isn't the government's timeline — it's starting document collection after selection instead of before. We recommend clients begin assembling degree evaluations, employment verification, and role documentation as soon as registration opens, not after.

This article is general information about a public process and is not legal advice about any individual's eligibility or timeline.