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[00:00.19] The U.S. State Department is working on a test program that would permit some work visa holders to renew their documents in the United States.

[00:15.11] The pilot program would involve holders of H-1B visas.

[00:22.05] This kind of visa permits highly skilled foreigners to enter the U.S. for work purposes for at least three years.

[00:33.76] Currently, H-1B visa holders are required to travel to an American diplomatic office outside the U.S. to seek renewals

[00:46.82] A State Department spokesperson told VOA the pilot program aims to improve "the uncertainty often experienced by U.S. companies” that temporarily employ H-1B workers.

[01:05.77] The official communicated by email.

[01:09.24] The official spoke to VOA on the condition that they not be identified.

[01:16.46] The official said that the State Department would judge whether the policy change would improve the availability and speed of visa approvals worldwide.

[01:30.88] Immigration lawyers have long urged the administration of President Joe Biden to bring back U.S. visa renewals that were ended in 2004.

[01:44.80] They say the current renewal process can make it difficult for U.S.-based foreign employees to get appointments at U.S. diplomatic offices abroad.

[01:58.98] And the travel linked to those appointments can be very costly.

[02:05.11] The spokesperson said the State Department is hoping to begin accepting renewal documents by the end of this year.

[02:16.03] The program is to begin with officials inviting a small number of visa holders to take part.

[02:24.85] But the spokesperson said the program must first go through a rule-making process, which will start at the White House.

[02:35.55] Once those rules are decided, the State Department will seek public comments and consider any necessary changes.

[02:46.79] The proposal will then go back to the White House for final review.