By: Angelita Chavez 

Introduction

On October 17, 2023, the Department of State (DOS) sent the Pilot Program to Resume Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas in The U.S. for Certain Qualified Noncitizens notice for review and publication in the Federal Register. Once published, the document will outline the eligibility requirements for participation in the Stateside Visa Renewal pilot program.

Summary

The Stateside Visa Renewal pilot program offers significant advantages to H-1B visa holders by enabling visa stamping within the United States. It is set to begin in early 2024, and it is anticipated that it will:

• Be limited to principal H-1B visa holders only;
• Be limited to nationals of countries that are not subject to reciprocity fees, such as India;
• Have eligibility requirements similar to those eligible for the interview waiver program;
• Be available for 20,000 applicants; and
• Be voluntary participation.

Conclusion

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