Indian Professionals Worried Over Delay In US H1B Visa Approval Scheme: The recent announcement by US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti regarding a pilot program for domestic visa renewal has been well received by thousands of Indian professionals in the US.
The primary purpose of this program is to simplify the visa renewal process for eligible H&L category employment visa applicants.
Indian professionals in the US on H-1B and L visas face challenges in returning to India for visa reinstatement.
This results in long waiting periods, uncertainty, work interruptions, and family separation. However, the program has been frustrated by many delays in implementing it.
Earlier this year, the US State Department announced the launch of a pilot program to initially provide visa renewal options within the US for H-1B and L-1 workers.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US, the White House confirmed the development.
The recent announcement of a pilot program to ease H-1B visa processing in the US earlier this year was fulfilled with fantastic anticipation and expectations within the immigration community.
“It is encouraging yet disappointing to note developments surrounding the program,” said Emily Newman, an attorney at Reddy & Newman, a Houston-based business immigration law firm.
Newman believes it is encouraging that the US State Department is still committed to making this pilot program a reality. The potential uses for visa applicants and immigration officers are essential.
Simplifying the H-1B visa process can decrease processing time, improve efficiency, and promote easier travel for visa holders, ultimately improving the overall immigration experience.
The delay has raised concerns, especially for individuals planning to visit family during the busy holiday season, as initial expectations were for implementation by the end of the year.
The unavailability of Dropbox and interview appointments remain challenges for visa applicants.
This situation forces many people to reconsider their travel and immigration plans, impacting family togetherness during the holiday season.
Some legal experts expect statewide certification of H-1B visas to be implemented by the end of 2023. However, this initial pilot program will be limited in scope and available only to H-1B holders.
It will not be limited to nationality but will not require an interview. Demand is anticipated to surpass the program’s capacity.
The State Department aims to expand the program to include H-4 dependents and L-1 visa holders and their L-2 dependents in 2024.
Being able to renew H-1B visas in the US will eliminate concerns about potential delays due to administrative processing at embassies and consulates for Indian professionals facing backlogs for permanent residence or green cards.
This move provides much-needed stability and convenience to visa holders and their employers.
The green card backlog has had significant consequences, preventing skilled immigrants from traveling for family emergencies or other important matters.
Although Prime Minister Modi appreciated the initiative to facilitate domestic visa stamping for specific categories in the US, the delay in its implementation remains a concern.
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Source:- timesofindia.indiatimes.com
