US Visa Appointments for Indian H-1B Workers Face 1-Year Delay Due to Stricter Screening

Indian H-1B visa holders face delays of up to 1 year in securing US visa appointments due to more rigorous screening norms, as per news reports.  

These delays are impacting their ability to travel internationally, return to the US for work, and maintain job continuity, especially in the technology sector. 

Increased Vetting Extends Visa Appointment Timelines 

The US Department of State has confirmed that the implementation of enhanced security and background checks has caused a considerable backlog in visa processing.  

Applicants are now waiting up to 12 months for appointment slots at US embassies and consulates, particularly in India. The shift comes as consular teams prioritise thorough vetting over earlier efforts to speed up processing queues. 

Technology Firms Caution Employees Against International Travel 

Major tech companies like Google and Apple have advised H-1B visa staff and their dependents to defer international travel due to the risk of delayed re-entry.  

Internal advisories from immigration law partners highlight instances of cancelled appointments and long waiting periods for workers seeking new visa stamps abroad. Indian professionals, who constitute over 70% of H-1B approvals, are among the most affected. 

Read More: TCS, Infosys Face Impact of $1,00,000 H-1B Visa Fee Under Trump Administration! 

Social Media History Checks and Online Activity Reviews Introduced 

The delays stem partly from procedural changes dating back to the Trump administration, including social media checks and reviews of applicants' online activity.  

Immigration firm Reddy Neumann Brown PC stated that similar delays have emerged in countries like Ireland and Vietnam, with Indian workers especially affected after the cancellation of December visa slots. 

Limited Relief Through Expedited Appointments 

While expedited appointment requests remain an option, consular capacity fluctuations can alter existing schedules.  

The US Department of State indicates appointments may open as staffing and operational efficiencies adjust, but no specific timelines have been guaranteed for normalisation. 

Conclusion 

Extended visa processing times are notably impacting Indian H-1B professionals, with increased vetting causing significant travel disruptions. Technology companies have taken precautionary measures to manage internal talent mobility amidst scheduling uncertainties. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.