The short answer
Employers register each person online with USCIS during a registration period, usually in March. USCIS selects registrations, and only selected people can have a petition filed, usually starting April 1.
What to know
- The employer (or its lawyer) creates a USCIS online account and registers you with a small fee.
- USCIS runs a selection. The method and the fee can change, so check USCIS for the current rules.
- If selected, the employer has a limited window to file the full petition.
- If not selected, you can be registered again the next year, or look at other options.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see USCIS.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.