The U.S. Department of State (DOS) launched a pilot program for domestic renewal of H-1B nonimmigrant visas, often referred to informally as “H-1B stamping in the U.S.” The initiative ran from January 29 to April 1, 2024, with the primary goal of testing the feasibility of reinstating domestic visa renewals and reducing global wait times for visa processing.
This program marked a significant step forward in streamlining the immigration process for H-1B holders, allowing certain applicants to complete renewals without traveling outside of the United States.
Eligibility and Application Criteria
Applicants who qualified for the pilot were able to apply online, with the Department of State accepting written comments until April 15, 2024. The program specifically applied to individuals seeking H-1B visa renewals issued by U.S. Missions in Canada or India within designated timeframes.
To participate, applicants had to meet strict requirements, including eligibility for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement. Key conditions included:
- The H-1B visa being renewed must have been issued by Mission Canada between January 1, 2020, and April 1, 2023, or by Mission India between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021.
- The applicant must qualify for the interview waiver program and must have previously submitted fingerprints to the Department of State.
- The prior visa could not include a “clearance received” annotation, as applicants requiring additional Department clearance were automatically ineligible.
- Applicants must hold an approved and valid H-1B petition, with their most recent entry into the U.S. in H-1B status, and they must still currently maintain H-1B status.
- H-4 dependents were excluded from the pilot program.
Applicants who did not meet these criteria but applied were rejected, and their fees were non-refundable.
Application Process and Timeline
The online application system went live on January 29, 2024, releasing 2,000 application slots per week for qualified candidates from both Canada and India. Once the weekly limit was reached, the portal closed until the next release date. The program concluded when all slots were filled or by April 1, 2024, whichever came first.
Application requirements included:
- Completing the DS-160 form.
- Paying the $205 application fee (non-refundable, payable via credit or debit card).
- Submitting a passport-style photo.
- Providing a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Including Form I-797 (H-1B approval notice) and Form I-94.
Applicants mailed their passports and documents to the Department of State through USPS or a commercial courier for review. The average processing time was estimated at six to eight weeks from the date of document submission. Importantly, the Department did not consider requests for expedited processing.
Purpose and Government Commitment
This pilot aligned with the federal government’s commitment to enhancing efficiency, reducing global visa backlogs, and improving the overall customer experience. By redistributing some of the visa processing workload from overseas posts to domestic offices, the initiative sought to alleviate wait times worldwide.
Under 22 CFR 41.111(b)(3), the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services (VO DAS) and designated officials hold the authority to grant nonimmigrant visas. For this program, they carefully defined eligibility and procedural requirements to ensure fairness and integrity in the selection process.
Historical Context: Why Domestic Renewals Were Suspended
Previously, domestic visa renewals were permitted. However, in 2004, following the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, the DOS suspended domestic renewal of non-diplomatic, nonimmigrant visas. This change was driven by the need to integrate biometric identifiers into all visas issued after October 26, 2004, requiring applicants to complete fingerprinting abroad at U.S. embassies or consulates.
The 2024 pilot marked the first meaningful step toward potentially reversing that suspension. By incorporating biometric requirements and modernized security protocols, the program tested the infrastructure needed for a broader rollout in the future.
Key Takeaways from the H-1B Renewal Pilot
- Limited Scope: Only applied to certain H-1B visas issued in Canada and India.
- Strict Requirements: Applicants needed prior fingerprint records, valid status, and interview waiver eligibility.
- Exclusions: Dependents (H-4 visas) were not eligible.
- Application Slots: Capped at 2,000 per week until April 1, 2024.
- Processing Time: Expected to take 6–8 weeks, with no expedited option.
H-1B Visa Renewal Pilot Program – Fees, Submissions, and Key Requirements
The Required Fee
To participate in the H-1B Visa Renewal Pilot Program, applicants must pay a non-refundable Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee of $205.00. This payment is processed directly through the U.S. Department of State’s secure online portal and can be completed using major debit or credit cards. It is important to note that this fee is mandatory and cannot be refunded under any circumstance, even if the application is denied or returned.
Submission and Return of Documents
After completing the online application, applicants are required to submit their passport, supporting documents, and proof of fee payment as directed by the Department of State portal. Once processed, the approved visa, along with the applicant’s passport and any other original documents submitted, will be returned via the U.S. Postal Service or a designated commercial courier service.
Applicants should also be aware of the Department’s strict policy against submitting out-of-scope renewal requests. Any H-1B renewal application that does not meet the criteria of the pilot program will be returned without review, adjudication, or refund of the MRV fee.
Possible Visa Refusals
Certain applicants may face refusal under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) if they do not qualify for a waiver or fail to satisfy renewal program requirements. In such cases, individuals will be required to submit a new DS-160 application and attend an in-person visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
Why the Pilot Program Matters
This pilot program is designed to streamline the visa renewal process while enhancing efficiency and security in alignment with Executive Order 14058. By modernizing the H-1B renewal process, the Department of State aims to support both U.S. companies and highly skilled temporary workers, reducing unnecessary delays and promoting smoother immigration processing.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys emphasize that this initiative not only reflects a forward-thinking approach by the U.S. government but also helps foster greater trust, transparency, and convenience for applicants.
Take the Next Step
If you are ready to take advantage of the 2024 H-1B Visa Renewal Pilot Program, now is the time to act. The program is limited in scope and availability, and understanding whether you qualify under the new guidelines is essential.
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are here to help you navigate the process with confidence. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your eligibility, prepare your application, and secure your place in the H-1B renewal process.