State Department Plans to Resume H-1B and L-1 Visa Renewal in the United States This Year
Bloomberg reports that the State Department plans to resume visa renewal services in the United States for H-1B and L-1 holders later this year, with possible expansion to other categories. The service ended in 2004; since then, such individuals traveling abroad have had to reapply at consulates, and during the pandemic some consulates were closed, making timely return difficult.
Bloomberg reports that the State Department will later this year resume a service allowing H-1B and L-1 visa holders to renew their visas within the United States, and that it may expand eligibility to other categories in the future. The service existed previously but was discontinued in 2004. Since then, H-1B and L-1 holders who extend their status domestically do not receive a new visa; if they travel internationally and leave the U.S., they must apply for a new visa at a consulate. During the pandemic, many consulates were closed, preventing these individuals from obtaining new visas in a timely manner and thus from returning to the U.S.
