By Nashwa Azzam, Partner |
The Department of State (DOS) recently released a formal notice introducing the launch of a Stateside Renewal Visa Pilot Program limited to approximately 20,000 H-1B holders initially. This initiative signals the awaited return of stateside visa processing, aiming to evaluate the Department’s ability to resume domestic visa renewals for specific nonimmigrant classifications and reduce worldwide visa wait times.
Eligibility for the Stateside Visa Renewal Pilot Program is rigorously limited to applicants renewing H-1B visas issued by specific missions (Canada and India) within certain time frames. Requirements include maintaining H-1B status, having an approved, unexpired H-1B petition, and demonstrating intent to reenter the U.S. in H-1B status after temporary travel abroad. Notably, the pilot program excludes H-4 spouses and other visa classifications due to operational challenges.
The Stateside Visa Renewal will begin on January 29, 2024, with weekly release dates for limited application slots. Applicants must complete a self-assessment, submit necessary forms and documents, with DOS, estimating a six to eight-week processing time.
The program’s announcement signifies a substantial advancement in aiding certain qualified noncitizens with H-1B visa renewals. While limited in scope, it demonstrates progress in streamlining processing and potentially reducing wait times, focusing primarily on H-1B principals for now.
KTA’s team of experts are here to assist employers and their employees navigate through these immigration changes.
