The procedures, process, and qualifications for H-1B visa holders to qualify for domestic renewal are now available. Only those individuals with H-1B visas issued within a specific date range at U.S. consulates in India and Canada are eligible. Dependents of H-1B visa holders are not included in the domestic stamping pilot program. Applications open on the State Department website on January 29, 2024.

Qualifications include:

  • H-1B Visa issued by Mission India between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021
  • H-1B Visa issued by Mission Canada between January 1, 2020, through April 1, 2023
  • Current H-1B visa holder
  • Approved and unexpired H-1B petition
  • Most recent admittance to the U.S. in H-1B status
  • Currently maintaining H-1B status in the U.S.
  • Period of authorized admission in H-1B status that is not expired with intention to reenter the U.S. in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad
  • Eligible for In-person interview waiver
  • Fingerprints previously submitted with a visa application
  • No “Clearance Received” annotation
  • Cannot be subject to a reciprocity fee

Applications will be reviewed and considered in the order received by the State Department.

The Department will release an estimated 2,000 application slots per week for each Mission Canada and Mission India H-1B visa holders. Appointments will be opened on each of the following dates: January 29, February 5, February 12, February 19, and February 26.

The online portal will close once applications received for each release date is reached. The next 2,000 slots for each Mission are opened on the next date until those slots are filled, until complete or on April 1, 2024. If an individual is not able to submit their application for a specific grouping, they can try again in future dates of release.

Documents required include a photograph, valid passport, DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application that is accurately completed and submitted electronically, a copy or original of the current Form I-797, Notice of Action, and a copy or original of the individual’s I-94, Arrival-Departure Record. A nonrefundable fee of $205 is also required.

An estimated six to eight weeks is required to complete processing if all documents are received. There is no expediting option for the pilot program.

If you have questions about the domestic H-1B visa renewal program, contact us at ILBSG. Our team of experienced attorneys work directly with clients to maximize the odds of a successful outcome, ensuring they get the right advice.

Domestic H-1B Renewal h-1b