Great news! The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced a pilot program that allows visa applicants to apply for a renewal of their H-1B visa within the United States!
To qualify for this program, applicants must have had their previous H-1B visa issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada between January 1, 2020, and April 1, 2023; or by a U.S. embassy or consulate in India between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021.
Other Visa Category Renewals
At this time, no other visa classifications, including H-4 visas for dependent spouses or children, will be processed through this program. Visa renewals will still be accessible at U.S. embassies or consulates abroad for scholars who are ineligible for this program or opt not to take part in it.
H-1B Visa Application Release Dates
The DOS will make available 20,000 applications for H-1B renewals beginning January 29, 2024. The last day to submit applications is April 1, 2024.
Application slots will be released weekly on the following dates:
- January 29, 2024
- February 5, 2024
- February 12, 2024
- February 19, 2024
- February 26, 2024
Application Materials
As part of the process, applicants must submit:
- DS-160 barcode sheet for a completed DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
- Passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the application date.
- One recent photograph.
- Copy of their current I-797 H-1B Approval Notice.
- Copy of their most recent I-94 record.
- Non-refundable $205 processing fee.
Processing Times
According to the DOS, processing times are estimated to take six to eight weeks after the DOS receives the applicant’s passport and supporting documents. No expedited services will be offered under this program.
More information about the program, including a detailed description of qualifications and costs, can be found on the U.S. Department of State website.
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