The United States has issued a fresh advisory for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, warning of longer processing times as enhanced screening measures come into effect. The announcement has created uncertainty for hundreds of Indian professionals, many of whom are facing unexpected delays in visa interviews and travel plans.
According to a statement released by the US Embassy in India, the Department of State has expanded its review of applicants’ online and social media presence as part of routine visa checks. This additional scrutiny now applies to all H-1B and H-4 applicants worldwide, regardless of nationality, starting December 15. Applicants have been advised to submit their applications as early as possible and be prepared for extended processing timelines.
The advisory coincides with the postponement of thousands of previously scheduled visa interviews in India. Many applicants who had appointments fixed for mid-December have received emails informing them that their interviews have been rescheduled by several months. In some cases, December interview dates have been shifted to March or even as late as May.
The H-1B visa programme plays a crucial role in enabling US companies—particularly in the technology sector—to hire skilled foreign professionals. Indian nationals, including IT experts and medical professionals, make up one of the largest segments of H-1B visa holders. As a result, the recent policy changes have had a significant impact on Indian workers and their families.
The US Embassy stated that the expanded vetting measures are aimed at preventing misuse of the H-1B programme while continuing to allow American employers access to highly skilled global talent. Despite the delays, embassies and consulates will continue accepting and processing H-1B and H-4 applications.
Many affected applicants had already traveled to India for visa renewal and are now unable to return to the US due to expired visas. The mass rescheduling of interviews has disrupted work commitments, employment continuity, and family plans for numerous professionals.
Over the past few months, the US Embassy has repeatedly emphasized that a US visa is a privilege rather than an entitlement. It has also clarified that visa screening does not end once a visa is issued and that approvals can be revoked if laws are violated.
Indian officials have acknowledged that the expanded screening process is part of a broader US effort to strengthen national security and curb illegal immigration, affecting not only H-1B and H-4 visas but also student and exchange visitor categories.
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