On January 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will begin accepting online H-1B visa stamp applications at this web address for a limited number of qualifying applicants to receive H-1B visa stamps from within the U.S. rather than at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. This long-awaited pilot program is initially only for certain individuals whose most recent H-1B visa stamps were issued in India or Canada.
DOS will release approximately 2,000 application slots for those whose most recent H-1B visas were issued by Mission Canada, and approximately 2,000 for those whose most recent H-1B visas were issued by Mission India (approximately 4,000 total each week) on the following dates:
- January 29
- February 5
- February 12
- February 19
- February 26
Every application received will be counted against an approximate 2,000 maximum weekly limit for each participating Mission. When the limit is reached, the online portal will be locked until the next tranche of slots is released on the next application date. Those unable to apply on one date may try their luck on any of the remaining application dates during the entry period. The pilot program application period will close when all slots are filled or on April 1, 2024, whichever comes first.
For details on program requirements and the application process, read our client alert.
For more information on the pilot program or other immigration topics, contact the authors Catherine Wadhwani at cwadhwani@foxrothschild.com or Mark Harley at mharley@foxrothschild.com