Domestic Visa Renewal Pilot Program: What Asian Professionals Need to Know

International professionals from Asia have long fueled the U.S. economy. Many—particularly from countries like India, China, Korea, and Japan—hold H‑1B or other employment‑based visas. Yet despite their critical roles, visa renewal often requires them to leave the United States for stamping at a U.S. consulate abroad, forcing them to face unpredictable interview wait times and potentially lengthy absences from their jobs.

In late 2023, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced a Domestic Visa Renewal (DVR) pilot program that would allow certain non‑immigrant workers to renew visas from within the United States. The pilot started in early 2024, focusing on H‑1B holders whose previous visas were issued in Canada or India. Although the initial program was limited, it generated significant interest among Asian professionals and their employers. By 2025, there have been calls to expand DVR to more visa types and nationals. Understanding how this program works—and its potential expansion—could be key for many Asian workers and their families.

In this column, we explain what the Domestic Visa Renewal program is, who currently qualifies, why it matters for Asian visa holders, and what steps you should take if you think you might benefit from it.

What Is the Domestic Visa Renewal Pilot Program?

Historically, foreign nationals in the U.S. on non‑immigrant visas (such as H‑1B, L‑1, or O‑1) needed to travel abroad to a U.S. consulate for visa stamping when renewing an expired visa. This rule came from Section 222 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows in‑country visa issuance only in narrow circumstances.

The Domestic Visa Renewal pilot—announced by the DOS in late 2023—was designed to ease the burden on highly skilled workers and the consulates that serve them. Under the pilot, select H‑1B holders could apply for new visa stamps without leaving the U.S. if:

• Their most recent H‑1B visa was issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada or India;
• They are renewing for the same visa classification (H‑1B) with the same employer;
• Their previous visa has not expired for more than 48 months; and
• They meet all other eligibility criteria, such as maintaining valid H‑1B status and not being subject to certain security screening or ineligibility grounds.

Participants submitted online applications and mailed their passports and supporting documents to the DOS’s visa office in Washington, D.C. After processing, passports were returned with the new visa stamp. The pilot aimed to adjudicate these cases within a few weeks, much faster than the months‑long waits some applicants face abroad.

Why Does This Matter for Asian Professionals?

1. Reduced Disruption and Risks

For many Asian H‑1B holders, particularly from India and China, traveling abroad for visa stamping can be risky. U.S. consulates in India, China and other countries often experience appointment backlogs, and visa processing delays can keep employees stranded abroad. Employers may worry about the employee’s absence, and families may face disruption—especially if children are in school in the U.S. The domestic pilot removes those variables, allowing workers to continue contributing to their companies without lengthy interruptions.

2. Supports Families on Dependent Visas

While the initial pilot only covered primary H‑1B holders, its expansion could include dependents (H‑4) and other categories. Many Asian professionals have spouses or children who rely on timely visa renewals. A broader program could alleviate concerns about family members facing visa delays abroad.

3. Signal of Reform and Expansion

The DVR pilot indicates that the DOS acknowledges the challenges faced by international talent and is exploring ways to streamline visa processing. Advocacy groups, including Asian‑American professional organizations and tech industry coalitions, have pushed for the program’s expansion. In 2025, legislative proposals and comments from DOS officials suggest that additional visa categories—such as L‑1 intracompany transferees, O‑1 extraordinary ability workers, and perhaps even F‑1 students on OPT—might be considered for domestic renewal.

Current Limitations and Potential Changes

While encouraging, the DVR program remains limited. Here are key points:

1. H‑1B Only (for now) – As of November 2025, DVR eligibility continues to be limited to H‑1B principals whose previous visas were issued in Canada or India. The DOS has not yet formally expanded it to dependents or other visa classes.
2. Quota Limits – The pilot accepted a limited number of applications (around 20,000 slots in 2024), and initial slots filled quickly. If the program expands, similar annual caps may apply.
3. Eligibility Constraints – Applicants must be maintaining valid status, have previously submitted fingerprints, and not fall into categories requiring additional administrative processing. If you have ever been denied a visa or have unresolved immigration issues, you may not qualify.
4. No Premium Processing – The DVR process currently doesn’t offer premium or expedited services. Processing times during the 2024 pilot averaged three to four weeks. Individuals needing immediate travel abroad still need to plan carefully.

Proposed changes discussed in 2025 include raising the cap or eliminating it altogether, broadening country eligibility beyond Canada and India, and adding categories like L‑1 and H‑4 dependents. However, none of these changes have been finalized as of November 2025.

Practical Tips for Asian Visa Holders

If you believe you may benefit from the DVR program—or hope to participate in future expansions—consider these steps:

• Track Government Announcements – The DOS publishes updates through its Visa Services website and the Federal Register. USCIS and DOS also issue joint statements on visa processing changes. Keep an eye on these outlets or work with a reliable attorney to stay informed.
• Prepare Documentation Early – Renewals typically require a valid passport, current I‑797 approval notice, prior visa foil, recent pay stubs, and employment verification. Ensure your documents are up‑to‑date and scan them for electronic submission when the program opens.
• Beware of Scams – Unfortunately, unscrupulous individuals may try to exploit demand for DVR. Apply only through official government portals—scams promising early access or guaranteed approval are not legitimate. Always consult an attorney if you have doubts.
• Consult with an Immigration Attorney – Particularly if you have travel plans, a history of status violations, or dependents, professional guidance can help you evaluate eligibility and avoid pitfalls. Attorneys can also monitor legislative changes and let you know when you can apply.
• Plan International Travel Carefully – Until the program expands, travelers may still need to leave the U.S. for certain visa renewals. If you are eligible for DVR, avoid scheduling international travel until you receive your returned passport, as your passport will be held by DOS during processing.

Looking Ahead: A Path Toward Broader Reform

The Domestic Visa Renewal pilot reflects a broader acknowledgment that U.S. immigration systems must adapt to a global workforce. For Asian professionals, the program offers hope for more predictable and humane visa renewal processes. Beyond DVR, several other reforms—such as the modernization of Form I‑485 green‑card processing, reduction of visa bulletin retrogressions, and expansion of family reunification parole programs—also demonstrate efforts to address long‑standing barriers for immigrants.

As of November 2025, expansion of DVR remains uncertain; however, the Department of State has solicited public comments on the pilot and is analyzing performance. If successful, it could become permanent and extend to more nationalities and visa categories. Asian communities, which make up a significant portion of U.S. H‑1B holders, stand to benefit enormously.

How Our Firm Can Help

Navigating U.S. immigration law can be daunting, especially when programs evolve. At Song Law Firm, we have decades of experience guiding clients from Korea, China, Japan, India, and other Asian countries through complex visa and green‑card processes. We monitor regulatory changes closely and help individuals and families take advantage of new opportunities like the Domestic Visa Renewal program.

Whether you are an H‑1B professional curious about DVR, a student exploring work‑authorization options, or a family petitioning for relatives, our team can:

• Evaluate your eligibility for the DVR pilot or upcoming expansions;
• Prepare and file your application with meticulous attention to detail;
• Develop contingency plans if you need to travel internationally; and
• Assist with other immigration matters, from H‑4 EADs to naturalization.

Don’t let visa renewal uncertainties disrupt your career or family life. Contact Song Law Firm today for a consultation.

Tel.: 201-461-0031
Email: immigration@songlawfirm.com

Disclaimer: This column provides general information and should not be construed as legal advice for your specific situation. Immigration policies change frequently; consult an attorney to understand how they apply to you.