Recently, the US announced that they are finally launching a domestic visa renewal programme. This programme would allow applicants to renew their H-1B visas without having to leave the US and go to their home country. This is a pilot programme and is being done on a limited basis. Now, it has been announced that the fee for H-1B will be raised. Here is all of the important information that you would need to know about this particular visa update.
H-1B Visa: The US Announces Hike In The Application Fee
According to an article which was recently published by Business Today, the hike in fees for H-1B visas will come into effect after April 1, 2024. This is when the slots for Domestic Visa Renewal will also end.
Where previously, the application fee was $460, it will be raised to $780 (₹64,612). There will also be an increase in the registration fee. Where it was initially only $10, it will be raised to $215 (₹17,809) from next year onwards.
Fees for other types of visas have also been increased. The L-1B visa application will now cost $1,385 (₹1,14,729) instead of $460. Investor visas or EB-5 visas will now cost $11,160 (₹9,24,460) instead of $3,675.
Also Read: H-1B Visa: You Can Now Renew Your Visa Without Leaving US! Applications Accepted Till April 1
About The Recent Domestic Visa Renewal Programme
The new domestic visa renewal programme is a pilot initiative. What is more, this programme is only available for a limited period of time for a limited number of applicants. The programme will let applicants renew their H-1B visas without having to travel back to their home country.
This will save a significant amount of time and money as applicants will be able to renew their visas from any corner of the US.
Also Read: Canada Introduces Open Work Permit For US H-1B Visa Holders. How Will It Affect Indians?
What do you think about this hike in the application fee and the recent domestic renewal programme? Let us know in the comments section below!
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