The US Department of State has unveiled a pilot program for H-1B visa domestic renewal, accepting applications from January 29 to April 1, 2024. Initially limited to 20,000 participants, eligible applicants must hold visas issued by the US Mission in Canada (January 1, 2020, through April 1, 2023) or the US Mission in India (February 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021).
The federal register outlines criteria and excludes dependent H-4 visa holders from qualifying. Emphasizing the impact on US industry partners, the program prioritizes H-1B principal applicants, addressing potential travel challenges for those with expired visas.
Applicants can submit with a $205 fee online starting January 29, 2024. The Department will release 10,000 slots weekly until February 26, split between Mission Canada and Mission India. The program continues until all visas are utilized or April 1, 2024, whichever comes first.
