US to Launch Pilot Program for Domestic Renewal of H-1B Visas, Major Boost for Indian Professionals
The United States is set to initiate a pilot program for the domestic renewal of certain categories of H-1B visas starting December. This move is expected to benefit a substantial number of Indian technology professionals, according to Julie Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services. Over the next three months, the State Department plans to issue 20,000 visas to foreign nationals already present in the country. The program aims to expedite visa appointments, particularly for Indian nationals, and prevent unnecessary travel for renewal. The initiative was officially announced during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US. The pilot program is welcomed by the Indian community, and the first official notice with detailed instructions is expected soon. The program is designed for work visas and is a part of existing regulations not used for about 20 years. The State Department plans to start small with a pilot of 20,000 cases in December, January, and February, with intentions to expand to more categories of workers in the rest of 2024.
Source: Hindustan Times
