The US is launching a pilot programme in December to allow Indian tech professionals to renew certain categories of H-1B visas in the US itself, without having to visit India for the process. The H-1B visa permits US companies to hire foreign workers for specialised roles requiring theoretical or technical expertise, with many tech firms relying on it to recruit employees from countries such as India and China.
In June, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, the White House revealed a trial programme. Over the next three months, the State Department will issue 20,000 visas, mostly for Indians already in the US. The aim is to simplify the process, helping Indian workers and allowing US missions in India to focus on new applicants.
Julie Stufft, deputy assistant secretary of state, visa services, shared in an interview that due to high demand for US visas in India and long wait times, a domestic renewal programme will start in December.
The visa-renewal programme is specifically for work visas. It’s an existing regulation that hasn’t been used in about 20 years. The programme is designed for individuals residing long-term in the US who wish to renew their visa without the need to go back overseas.
An Indian-American leader praised the State Department’s move, considering it significant. He noted the impact on over a million H-1B holders, with a large number being Indians. The leader further expressed gratitude to President Biden, the State Department, and related committees, emphasising his ongoing commitment to immigration issues. He sees this progress as a step towards inclusivity and relief for legal immigrants.
