DOS Expected to Begin Stateside Visa Renewal Pilot in Early 2024
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The U.S. Department of State (DOS) plans to start a pilot program called "Stateside Visa Renewal" for certain qualified noncitizens.
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This program is aimed at reducing delays in visa renewal, especially for H-1B nonimmigrant visa holders in the United States.
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The DOS sent a Notice for Review, which outlines the eligibility criteria for the program, to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.
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The program is expected to begin in early 2024.
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Initially, it will only be available for H-1B visa holders, and applicants must be from countries that don't require reciprocity fees. India is one of the eligible countries.
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Applicants will need to meet eligibility requirements similar to those for the interview waiver program.
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The program will be open to 20,000 applicants, and participation is voluntary.
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This initial launch is a pilot program to test its operational effectiveness. The DOS plans to expand it if the pilot phase is successful.
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AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) is actively monitoring and engaging with DOS on the development of this program.
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AILA aims to ensure the success and expansion of the pilot program and encourages its members to provide feedback through the "Report a Trend" survey on the DOS Liaison Committee page.
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