U.S. Launches In-Country H-1B Visa Renewal Drive, Accepts 20,000 Applications

The U.S. Department of State has initiated a pilot program for in-country renewal of H-1B visas, allowing up to 20,000 qualified nonimmigrant workers, including Indian nationals, to renew their visas without leaving the U.S. This significant change follows an announcement made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. in June 2023.

The move aims to streamline the visa process for legal immigrants, eliminating the need for applicants to travel abroad for renewal. The pilot program will run for five weeks, and participants will be split equally between workers who recently received their H-1B visas in India and Canada. If successful, the program may expand to include other visa categories.