Dear clients and friends,
We are writing to bring to your attention a significant development in the U.S. immigration process. The State Department has announced plans to launch a pilot program later this year offering visa renewal options in the U.S. for H-1B specialty occupation workers and other temporary visa holders who are currently required to travel abroad.
This is a major change from the current system, which requires these visa holders to leave the U.S. to renew their visas. The stateside renewal option will reduce the workload of consular offices abroad and make it easier for visa holders to stay in the U.S. without interruption. The pilot program will initially be available to H and L visa holders, and there is a possibility that it may be expanded in the future.
This move by the State Department is a response to the difficulties faced by visa holders during the pandemic, as many faced long wait times for visa appointments and were unable to return to the U.S. due to the inability to obtain a valid visa stamp. The domestic renewal option will also benefit first-time visa applicants, as it is expected to open up the capacity of consular offices and reduce wait times for interviews.
If you have any questions about this new development or would like to discuss your individual situation, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will keep you updated on any further developments in this area.
Yours,
Dewan & Associates PLLC.
New York Offic
