ACTION PUNJAB NEWS Desk: In a move that is expected to benefit thousands of Indian tech professionals, the United States has launched a pilot program for the renewal of H-1B foreign work visas within the country. The H-1B visa is crucial for U.S. technology companies, allowing them to hire foreign workers with specialised skills in theoretical or technical fields.
The pilot renewal program, initiated on January 29 and running until April 1, marks a significant development as, for the first time in almost two decades, a limited number of H-1B nonimmigrants can renew their visas from within the United States.
The U.S. State Department announced the voluntary pilot program, accepting applications from January 29, 2024, through April 1, 2024, or until all application slots are filled, whichever comes first. The program aims to process approximately 4,000 applications each week. Applicants in current H-1B status are allowed to renew their visas in the U.S. before a temporary trip abroad. The pilot program is set to benefit about 2,000 applicants whose prior H-1B visas were issued by U.S. diplomatic missions in Canada and another 2,000 applicants whose previous H-1B visas were issued by U.S. embassies and consulates in India.
Application slots will be released on specific dates, including January 29, February 5, February 12, February 19, and February 26. The process operates on a first-received, first-processed basis until the weekly limit is reached. Applicants unable to apply on a particular date may reattempt during the remaining application dates within the entry period. The application period will close once all slots are filled or on April 1, 2024, whichever comes first.
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The estimated processing time for applications is six to eight weeks from the date the applicant’s passport and required documents are received by the State Department. The department emphasises that all applications will be handled strictly on a first-received, first-processed basis.
Individuals not meeting the pilot program requirements or choosing not to participate can still apply for visa renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas, according to the State Department. The program provides a new avenue for H-1B visa holders to streamline the renewal process and maintain their work status within the United States.
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(Inputs from agencies)
