DOS Introduces Pilot Program for Domestic Visa Renewals

The US Department of State (DOS) will launch a pilot program in early 2024 to test the feasibility of allowing certain nonimmigrants to renew their visas while remaining in the United States. The program, called “Stateside Processing,” will run from January 29, 2024 to April 1, 2024. Participation is voluntary and is limited to certain principal H-1B applicants who meet the eligibility criteria, including but not limited to:

• Eligible to renew their visa during the pilot phase period;
• Seeking to renew a prior H-1B visa which was issued in Canada from January 1, 2020 through April 2023, or issued in India from February 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021;
• Eligible for an interview waiver;
• Not subject to a visa reciprocity fee

With the pilot program, DOS hopes to confirm the technological and operational viability of renewing nonimmigrant visas domestically, with the goal of reducing consular backlogs around the world. If successful, the program may be extended and/or expanded to include other visa categories.

If you are interested in applying for an H-1B visa renewal through the pilot program, please contact your KM&M attorney.