Effective from December 17, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced updates to improve the efficiency and integrity of the H-1B program. Changes include stricter requirements for specialty occupations, requiring degrees directly related to job duties, and expanded eligibility for employers with a U.S. presence and Tax ID, enabling self-petitioning. A new Form I-129 will be mandatory for H-1B filings starting January 17, 2025. The itinerary requirement has been removed, while USCIS now has broader authority to conduct site inspections, including at remote or home-based worksites. These updates aim to streamline processes and strengthen compliance.
Refer to the following link for additional information:
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-18/pdf/2024-29354.pdf
