Details of the new pilot program. Application period: From January 29, 2024 to April 1, 2024.

Details of the new pilot program launched by the US State Department regarding the ability to extend H-1B visas without having to leave the country.

Application period: From January 29, 2024 to April 1, 2024.
Those wishing to apply can do so on the official website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/employment/domestic-renewal.html
Applications will be accepted weekly with a limit of 4,000 per week until the total application limit of 20,000 is reached. There are five time slots available, starting January 29, 2024 and ending February 26, 2024.
Participation in the program is only available to applicants whose visas were issued by the US Consulate in Canada from 01/01/2020 to 04/01/2023 and by the US Consulate in India from 02/01/2023 to 09/30/2021.
Visa categories such as H-4 for dependent spouses and children are not eligible for processing under the pilot program.
The average processing time for applications is expected to be six to eight weeks, with completion of the process no later than May 1, 2024.
Requests for expedited processing will not be considered.
Those who do not qualify for the program or who choose not to participate may renew their visa as normal while leaving the United States.

24/01/2024