Information about the procedures, process, and qualifications for the domestic renewal of H-1B visas is now available. The program is accepting only individuals holding H-1B visas issued within specific date ranges at U.S. consulates in India and Canada. Dependents of H-1B visa holders are not part of the domestic stamping pilot initiative. The application window opens on January 29, 2024, on the State Department website.
Qualifications include:
- H-1B Visa issued by India between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021
- H-1B Visa issued by Canada between January 1, 2020, through April 1, 2023
- Current H-1B visa holder
- Approved and unexpired H-1B petition
- Most recent entry to the U.S. in H-1B status
- Maintaining H-1B status in the U.S.
- Unexpired period of authorized admission in H-1B status with the intention to reenter the U.S. in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad
- Eligible for an in-person interview waiver
- Previously submitted fingerprints with a visa application
- No “Clearance Received” annotation
- Not subject to a reciprocity fee
Applications will be processed in the order received by the State Department. Approximately 2,000 application slots per week will be released for each Canada and India H-1B visa holders. Appointment slots will be opened on specified dates: January 29, February 5, February 12, February 19, and February 26.
The online portal will close after reaching the application limit for each release date. The next 2,000 slots for each country will be opened on the subsequent date until filled, up to April 1, 2024. Individuals unable to submit an application on a specific date can try again on future release dates.
Required documents include a photograph, valid passport, completed and electronically submitted DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, a copy or original of the current Form I-797, Notice of Action, and a copy or original of the individual’s I-94 Arrival-Departure Record. A nonrefundable fee of $205 is also required.
Processing time is estimated to be six to eight weeks if all documents are received, and there is no expediting option for the pilot program.
If you have questions about the domestic H-1B visa renewal pilot program or any other U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. We work with our clients through their immigration journey and stay with them every step of the way.