H-1B Cap: No, It Is Not Too Early

While it may seem early, it is a good time for employers to start preparing for the H-1B Cap for Fiscal Year 2015, which begins October 1, 2014. Demand for the H-1B has steadily increased, with last year's cap being reached in the first week of filing. Employers should expect this trend to continue and be prepared to file their H-1B petitions on the earliest possible date, April 1, 2014.

Background:

By way of background, the H-1B is a very significant visa category as it allows qualified professionals to enter the U.S. Only a limited number may be granted each fiscal year (which runs from October 1st through September 30th). Under current immigration law, only 65,000 new H-1B petitions may be granted each fiscal year with an additional 20,000 available for those individuals with advanced degrees from a U.S. academic institution.