The journey of H-1B is often considered a nightmare, from the very beginning to the final green card approval. The average H-1B holder experiences a convoluted, complicated, and unpredictable process, even for those who are highly qualified and exceptionally talented.
They all share the same struggles. One of these challenges is the requirement to leave the U.S. for H-1B stamping referred to as the “stamping process.”
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In countries like India, securing an appointment slot for H-1B stamping in cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, or Bangalore is extremely difficult.
Applicants must also contend with black market agents who exploit their needs and extract money. Stories of H-1B holders being exploited by these agents frequently circulate on social media, highlighting the difficulties they face.
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On top of these challenges, the uncertainty surrounding the processing time for H-1B stamping – including the possibility of approval or rejection and whether applicants can return to the U.S. – adds to the emotional turmoil.
Last year, the U.S. government experimented with a pilot program allowing H-1B applicants to seek stamping within the U.S. itself.
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A recent update from the Department of State, released on December 17th, announced the successful completion of this pilot program.
According to the Department of State, many specialty occupation workers from India can now renew their visas without leaving the U.S. This pilot program streamlined the renewal process for thousands of applicants, and the Department of State is working to formally establish a U.S.-based renewal program in 2025.
This update was posted on the embassy.gov website, marking a significant development.
This is indeed good news, as it is the first time the Department of State has confirmed the pilot’s completion and that U.S.-based stamping will now be available for thousands of applicants.
Given this official update, one can hope that 2025 will bring much-needed facilities for H-1B stamping within the U.S. itself.
