US Visa Interview Delays Trigger Long Wait for Indian H‑1B Workers

The United States has pushed back many H‑1B visa interviews in India after mid‑December. The new dates now fall in March and April 2026. The US Embassy informed applicants through emailed notices. The shift has caused worry for workers who planned to travel back to the US soon. The main keyword is “US visa interview delays.”

The delay comes after the US State Department started new social media checks for H‑1B applicants. According to Reuters, the added reviews have slowed the visa process in several countries. Many workers in India now face long waits with no clear way to speed things up. The change matters for people who must return to the US to keep their jobs on time.

US Visa Interview Delays Create Travel and Job Risks

According to AP News, many H‑1B holders were advised not to travel to India. The delays mean they may not be able to return to the US until their new interview dates. Some US companies do not allow long remote work from abroad. This could put jobs at risk for workers stuck outside the country.

Many applicants already finished their biometrics at Visa Application Centers. They now cannot cancel or rebook early. Those who got new dates can only reschedule once. Some fee receipts may also expire if not used in time. Workers in India now wait for clarity as the US Embassy manages the backlog.

Experts also advise people to check their social media accounts. The new vetting rules require clean, updated profiles. NBC News said that old or inactive accounts may cause delays. Applicants should avoid deleting accounts after scheduling, as this may trigger more checks.

Impact on Workers and Companies

The interview delays affect both workers and US employers. Workers fear losing pay or jobs. Companies may face project delays if team members cannot return on time. Some firms are preparing backup plans. Others have asked employees to stay in the US until further notice.

The longer wait also harms families. Many dependents on H‑4 visas face the same delays. Parents with school‑age kids must rearrange plans. The sudden shift has caused stress for many Indian workers who already booked travel or moved deadlines.

Long-Term Outlook for Visa Processing

The delay shows how new screening rules can slow visa systems. US agencies may take time to adjust. If checks remain strict, wait times may stay long. Workers may change travel plans to avoid getting stuck abroad. Employers may also adjust staffing to reduce risk.

US visa interview delays are now a major concern. Many workers hope the delay ends soon. The next few months will show how fast the US can fix the backlog.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Why were US visa interviews delayed?

The delays came after new social media checks. The review process slowed interview scheduling. Many dates moved to 2026.

Q2: Who is most affected by the delays?

H‑1B workers in India face the most risk. Many cannot return to the US without visa stamping. Some may face job issues.

Q3: Can applicants reschedule their new visa dates?

They can reschedule only once. Some fee receipts may expire if not used. Many must wait for the new dates.

Q4: Should H‑1B workers travel to India now?

Experts say no. Travel may lead to long delays in returning. Many companies cannot allow long remote work.

Q5: What should applicants do with their social media?

Keep accounts clean and updated. Do not delete accounts after scheduling. Make sure details match other records.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC, NBC News