USCIS H-1B Modernization Rule — registration integrity, degree recognition

Effective 17 January 2025, the USCIS H-1B Modernization Rule introduced several changes: beneficiary-centric registration (each individual eligible for selection once regardless of multiple employer registrations), clarification of specialty-occupation standards (direct relationship between degree and role required), streamlined cap-gap student extensions. Pre-dates and is distinct from the 2025 Trump administration weighted-selection rule.