In recent updates, the US Department of State announced a successful pilot program completed in 2024. The program allows many skilled workers from India on H1B visa to renew their visa within the United States. The US Embassy in India shared the news, making the process much easier for those in specialty occupations.
H1B Visa Renewal Without Visiting India
With regard to the same, the United States intends to launch a new program that would enable H1B visa holders to renew their visas without having to leave the country.
This shift is a significant development, as it will potentially enhance the livelihoods of many Indian professionals in specialty careers. Currently, H1B visa holders are required to travel to India to complete the renewal and restamping process. However, in 2024, the US Department of State piloted a new program, as reported by the US embassy in India.
With this program, it is easier for many skilled workers from India to renew their visas locally instead of traveling back to India. It has also helped simplify the process of renewing thousands of appointments, reducing the struggle of obtaining a slot at US consulates, which has always been a challenge for Indian workers.
US-Based H1B Visa Renewal Program
Regarding the future of this program, the US Embassy released information that the Department of State is actively working to officialize the U.S.-based renewal of the H1B visa by 2025.
The H1B visa program is significant in facilitating the entry of foreign workers in areas such as technology, engineering, medicine, and finance, among others. However, the program has been controversial and a subject of political debate in the United States. Some concerns raised include the perception that foreigners, particularly those from India, pose a threat to American citizens by taking jobs.
However, the program has been supported by former President Donald Trump, business magnate Elon Musk, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. They have emphasized the necessity of attracting skilled foreign workers to meet workforce demands in the United States. H1B visa seekers, especially Indian nationals, continue to dominate yearly applications, securing a significant share of the quotas. This highlights their importance in the American workforce.
For instance, Indian applicants accounted for 77% of the 320,000 approved H1B visas during 2022. Similarly, they represented 72.3% of the 386,000 visas issued in 2023. The new renewal program is expected to further streamline the visa process for Indian workers, who comprise the largest demographic of H1B recipients.
H1B Visa Price Hike And Distribution
H1B visa seekers and the companies they work for are prepared to bear the costs of this highly sought-after work permit. The H1B program has several charges that depend on specific factors.
1. Initial Registration Fee:
Applicants can register for the H1B lottery for $10, which has remained unchanged since 2024. This is a nominal charge for initiating the application process.
2. Base Filing Fee:
Employers are expected to pay a $460 base fee for filing each H1B petition. This is one of the most important costs that companies pursuing qualified foreign personnel need to consider.
3. Anti-Fraud Fee:
An additional $500 anti-fraud fee is charged to employers for first-time applicants or those transferring from another employer. This fee is designed to discourage misuse of the Act.
4. Surcharge for Large Employers:
Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, of 2016, companies with more than 50 employees, where over half of the workforce is on H1B or L1 visas, must pay a $4,000 surcharge. This fee remains in effect until September 2025.
5. Premium Processing Fee:
For urgent cases, employers can opt for premium processing for $2,805. This ensures application processing within fifteen days, which is beneficial for hiring talent in time-sensitive industries.
Employer Will Bear The Cost
Predominantly, it is the employer who incurs most of the costs, such as the filing fee, the anti-fraud fee, and the additional fee for premium processing. However, the employee may be required to provide a little cash for visa stamping and other interview-related charges.
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