The H-1B visa process involves vital timelines: registration opens March 1, 2025, closes March 24th; lottery results by March 31st; filing petitions April 1-June 30; work authorization starts October 1, 2025. Key steps include preparing documents by February, addressing prevailing wages, and ensuring USCIS requirements are met. Employers/applicants must track deadlines, handle petitions promptly, and prepare for potential second lotteries.