when is the soonest i can apply for H1B?

The answer depends on whether you are exempt from the cap. If this is your first time applying for an H-1B petition, then the next filing window opens on April 1, 2018. As premium processing has been temporarily placed on hold it could take as long as 6+ months for your case to be processed. H-1B petitions become effective on October 1 of the year in which you apply, however, in some cases, it may take longer than six months for the petition to be processed and approved. Please note that this is not intended to constitute legal advice and is intended for informational purposes only. If you have specific questions, please contact Madison | Piper PC.