US H-1B Visa Pilot Program: Eligibility, Dates for Indians
The United States has recently disclosed crucial information about its pilot program aimed at renewing H-1B nonimmigrant visas. This blog post provides an overview of the eligibility criteria, application dates, and important details for those interested in participating in the program, which is set to kick off in January 2024.
H-1B Pilot Program: Key Dates and Application Window
The Department of State will commence the H-1B pilot program application process on January 29, 2024. Interested individuals have until April 1, 2024, to submit their applications. The primary objective of this pilot is to assess the Department's technical and operational capabilities in resuming domestic visa renewals. Additionally, the department has set a deadline of midnight on April 15, 2024, for written comments and related materials.
Access the H-1B pilot program US government circular here
H-1B Pilot Program: Application Slots for Indians and Canadians
Eligible applicants, limited to Indians and Canadians, will have a three-month window to apply online. The Department will release approximately 4,000 application slots each week, with 2,000 slots reserved for those with the most recent H-1B visas from Mission Canada and another 2,000 slots for applicants whose visas were issued by Mission India.
The weekly slots will be available on the following dates:
- January 29
- February 5
- February 12
- February 19
- February 26
Applicants should take note of these dates based on their last H-1B visa issuance location.
H-1B Pilot Program: Where to Apply
Applications can be submitted through the official website: US Department of State – H-1B Visa Renewal. A summary of the rule is also accessible at www.regulations.gov by searching for “1400-AF79.”
For further assistance, applicants can contact Jami Thompson, Senior Regulatory Coordinator, Visa Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Department of State, via email at VisaRegs@state.gov.
H-1B Pilot Program: Eligibility Criteria
1. To be eligible for H-1B visa renewal under the pilot program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
2. Only H-1B visa renewals will be processed during the pilot phase.
3. The H-1B visa to be renewed must have been issued by Mission Canada between January 1, 2020, and April 1, 2023, or by Mission India from February 1, 2021, to September 30, 2021.
4. Applicants should not be subject to a nonimmigrant visa issuance fee (reciprocity fee).
5. Eligibility for a waiver of the in-person interview is required.
6. Applicants must have previously submitted ten fingerprints to the Department for a past visa application.
7. The prior visa must not have a “clearance received” annotation.
8. Applicants cannot have a visa ineligibility that requires a waiver for issuance.
9. Applicants must have an approved and unexpired H-1B petition.
10. The applicant's most recent admission to the U.S. must have been in H-1B status.
11. Applicants must be currently maintaining H-1B status in the United States, and the period of authorized admission in H-1B status should not have expired.
12. Applicants must intend to reenter the U.S. in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad.
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In conclusion, this pilot program represents a significant step for those looking to renew their H-1B visas, offering a structured process and clear guidelines for eligible applicants.
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