US gives nod for H-1B visa extension, offering huge relief to stranded Indians

Providing big relief to H-1B visa holders, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has given a nod to extend visas that have or are set to expire. This move comes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As per the latest notification that was released by the DHS, it said that the Department of Homeland Security recognizes the fact that there are immigration-related challenges due to the current crisis situation relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. DHS stated that they will continue to carefully analyse the issues and leverage their resources to effectively address the challenges within their existing authorities. DHS further added that it will continue to take action to protect the people, and is considering a number of policies and procedures to improve employment opportunities of US workers during this pandemic.This said development comes at a time when the annual visas come up for renewal. But, this year, amid the Coronavirus outbreak, no hiring has taken place in the United States since January, thereby putting H-1B holders at risk if the visas are not extended or renewed.

Generally, non-immigrants need to depart the United States before their authorized period of expiration. However, this year, it has been noted that non-immigrants might unexpectedly have to remain in the United States beyond their authorized period of stay due to COVID-19, the notification added saying people could apply for a visa extension.
The announcement also comes as a time when most of the countries around the world have sealed their borders, and international flights have been suspended temporarily globally. These travel restrictions have left most of the H-1B visa holders stranded in the United States with their visa permits set to expire soon. However, as per the DHS, it will start accepting applications shortly for the extension of expiring visas.