In a setback to thousands of Indians in the United States, the pilot project allowing work permit holders to renew their visas while remaining in the US will not extend to their dependents.
The new pilot program aimed at streamlining the renewal process for H-1B visas comes with a notable exclusion - it will only apply to principal H-1B visa holders, leaving out their dependents.
The decision, although bringing relief to numerous H-1B professionals who can now renew their visas without leaving the United States, has triggered concerns among those with families in America. The omission of spouses and children from the renewal program has left many businesses disappointed.
While the move is seen as a positive step for individual H-1B employees, business organizations and their members are advocating for a broader scope in the future. There is a collective call for the State Department to consider including H-4 dependents in the pilot program as it expands or transitions into a permanent initiative.
From January, the State Department will allow 20,000 H-1B visa holders undergo the visa renewal process within the United States.