The US Department of State has announced details for its pilot program to resume H-1B visa renewals for skilled foreign workers, with a focus on Indian and Canadian applicants. The program, aimed at streamlining the process and reducing backlogs, will run from January 29 to April 1, 2024, with 20,000 slots available. The department is focused on testing the technical and operational ability to resume visa renewal in the domestic category. Eligibility and Application ProcessOnly H-1B visa renewals: The program is currently limited to renewals, not new applications.Nationality restrictions: Initially, only applicants who received their most recent H-1B visas from Mission Canada (between January 1, 2020, and April 1, 2023) or Mission India (between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021) are eligible.Application window: Applications will be accepted online from January 29 to April 1, 2024, through [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/employment/domestic-renewal.html]Weekly slots: Around 4,000 slots will be open each week, split equally between Canadian and Indian applicants. Applications will be accepted on Mondays at 12:00 PM EST.Additional RequirementsNo reciprocity fee: Applicants should not be subject to the nonimmigrant visa issuance fee (reciprocity fee).Interview waiver eligibility: Applicants must be eligible for an interview waiver.Previous fingerprints: Applicants must have previously submitted fingerprints to the Department for a past visa application.Valid H-1B petition and status: Applicants must have an approved and unexpired H-1B petition and be currently maintaining H-1B status in the US.Intent to return: Applicants must intend to re-enter the US in H-1B status after a temporary trip abroad.Fees: Applicants will need to pay the required $205.00 non-refundable and non-transferable MRV fee through the online portal.The Department of State is accepting written comments and related materials on the pilot program until April 15, 2024. Comments can be submitted through www.regulations.gov by searching for 1400-AF79.This pilot program is a significant step towards addressing the backlog of H-1B visa renewals for skilled workers from India and Canada. The success of this program could pave the way for further expansion and improvements to the H-1B visa system in the future.
