The US is preparing to resume "domestic visa revalidation" in some categories on a trial basis with the aim of expanding it in the following several years, a move that might help tens of thousands of foreign tech workers on H-1B and L1 visas. When fully implemented, the pilot initiative, which will be introduced later this year, will provide a great deal of relief for thousands of Indian tech experts working in the US. Up to 2004, some non-immigrant visa classifications, most notably the H-1B, allowed for in-country renewal or stamping. After 2004, foreign tech professionals must leave the nation, typically to their own country, in order to renew these visas, especially those on H-1B. All H-1B visa holders must have the renewal dates on their passports stamped every time their visa is extended. If they want to leave the country and come back, they must do this. Currently, the US does not permit the restamping of H-1B visas. Particularly at a time when the visa wait time is over 800 days or more than two years, this was a major inconvenience for foreign guest workers as well as for their employees.

Key Points

• The US is preparing to resume "domestic visa revalidation" in some categories on a trial basis with the aim of expanding it in the following several years, a move that might help tens of thousands of foreign tech workers on H-1B and L1 visas.

• When fully implemented, the pilot initiative, which will be introduced later this year, will provide a great deal of relief for thousands of Indian tech experts working in the US.

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