- There are some exceptions to 12 months like now until Dec 31st, 2022, where the US Dept of State has waived in-person appointments for H1B holders if they meet requirements such as having a valid US Visa issued in any category in the past and applying from the country of residence. - In the past, during the pandemic in 2021, they extended dropbox eligibility for H1B holders to 48 months from expiry.