US to Streamline Visa Renewal Process for H-1B and L-1 Visa Holders – Extreme Guide
US to Streamline Visa Renewal Process for H-1B and L-1 Visa Holders: The Biden administration is preparing to launch a pilot program that would allow certain Indian and other foreign workers with H-1B visas to renew their visas in the United States without traveling abroad. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Washington, the program is expected to be launched as early as Thursday.
As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States, the Biden administration intends to streamline the process for Indians to live and work in the United States.
According to a report by Reuters, sources with knowledge of the situation indicate that the State Department could announce a pilot program this week that would allow a select number of skilled Indian workers, as well as other foreign workers on H-1B visas, to renew their visas in the United States without traveling abroad.
Easing Restrictions for Indian Citizens
73% of the approximately 442,000 H-1B workers in fiscal year 2022 are Indian citizens. Recognizing the importance of mobility for skilled workers, a US official emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to the issue.
The State Department has been actively pursuing novel approaches to facilitate these changes.
Pilot Program to Allow Easy Visa Renewal
While specific details regarding which visa types will be eligible and the precise launch date of the pilot program remain unknown, plans for the program were announced in February.
A spokesperson for the State Department declined to comment on these particulars but confirmed that the pilot program would begin with a small number of cases and expand gradually over the next one to two years.
Here are some additional details about the pilot program:
- During Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Washington, the program is expected to be launched as early as Thursday.
- The program is initially limited to a small number of cases, but expansion is possible in the coming years.
- It is likely that the program will include H-1B and L-1 visas.
- The program aims to make it simpler for skilled workers to live and work in the United States.
- It is believed that the program will improve relations between the United States and India.
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Expanding Pilot Program to Include L-1 Visa Workers
In addition to H-1B visa holders, the pilot program will likely include L-1 visa holders. The L-1 visa category permits intra-company transfers to positions in the United States, thereby promoting intra-company mobility.
Impact on H-1B Visa Allocation and Renewal Process
Each year, the US government allots 65,000 H-1B visas to companies seeking skilled foreign workers and an additional 20,000 visas to those with advanced degrees.
These visas are initially valid for three years and can be renewed for an additional three years.
According to government data, Indian companies like Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services, as well as American companies like Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta, have been among the top users of H-1B workers in recent years.
Streamlining Visa Renewal Process
By allowing certain temporary foreign workers to renew their visas in the United States, resources needed for visa interviews at consulates overseas can be released. According to a State Department spokesperson, this action is intended to reduce the burden on consular services and expedite the visa renewal process.
Addressing Visa Application Backlog in India
Another source indicates that the backlog of visa applications at US embassies in India is being addressed. This occurrence is anticipated to be a central topic of discussion at the ongoing bilateral meetings between the delegations of both nations in Washington this week.
Final Words
The Biden administration’s pilot program to facilitate visa access for Indians is a positive development. The program has the potential to alleviate the skilled labor shortage in the United States, stimulate the economy, and improve relations between the United States and India.
People Also Ask
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Can I extend my H-1B visa once it has expired?
A request for an extension may be for a maximum of three years, as long as the beneficiary has not reached the maximum of six years in H-1B status. Once the petition for an H-1B extension has been filed, we recommend that the H-1B worker not travel outside the United States. To comply with 8 C.F.R.
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Can I renew my H-1B visa within the United States?
When H-1B visas are renewed, all visa holders must have their passports stamped with the new expiration date. This is necessary if they wish to travel outside the United States and reenter the country. Currently, H-1B visas cannot be re-stamped within the United States. Restamping is only permitted at U.S. consulates.
