H-1B Visa Delays Intensify as New US Social Media Checks Cause Widespread Postponements

The US State Department has abruptly postponed thousands of H-1B visa interviews in India. New mandatory social media screening for applicants is causing major disruptions. Interviews scheduled for December are now being pushed into March of next year.

This unexpected delay creates immense uncertainty for Indian professionals and their US-based employers. According to Reuters, the move is part of broader efforts to enhance national security vetting.

Embassy Advisory Confirms Widespread Rescheduling

The US Embassy in India issued a late-night advisory confirming the changes. It stated that new instructions were taking effect immediately. Applicants who received a rescheduling email must attend their new date.

Those who arrive on their original date will be denied entry to the embassy. The notice did not specify the exact number of affected interviews. Legal firms in the US confirm a significant slowdown is already underway.

Legal Experts Decry “Unpredictable” Visa Maze

Attorneys report that the process has become chaotic. Steven Brown of Reddy Neumann Brown PC confirmed appointments are being canceled and rescheduled for March. This is to allow time for the new social media vetting process.

Another partner, Emily Neumann, said the situation is highly unpredictable. She described visa stamping as a maze filled with obstacles. This creates real challenges for businesses and employees who need to travel.

New Screening Regulation Takes Effect

The new rule requires H-1B holders and their dependents to keep social media accounts publicly viewable. US officials will review posts, connections, and activities. This assessment aims to identify potential security threats or grounds for inadmissibility.

The State Department stated that every visa adjudication is a national security decision. Similar scrutiny already applies to students and exchange visitors. The policy officially took effect in mid-December.

Social Media Erupts With Frustration and Criticism

The delays have sparked significant anger online. Many applicants label the process “performative cruelty” and a “humiliation ritual.” They argue the system appears broken for both applicants and US companies.

Deepal Shenoy, CEO of Capitalmind, called the H-1B program a “trap” and a form of indentured servitude. Other users shared stories of long, futile travels for canceled appointments. Some American political factions, however, support the delays and call for ending the H-1B program entirely.

The new H-1B visa delays underscore a significant tightening of US immigration vetting. For thousands of Indian tech professionals, plans are now on hold indefinitely. The situation highlights the growing complexity and unpredictability of high-skilled worker visas.

Info at your fingertips

Why are H-1B visa interviews in India being postponed?

The US State Department has implemented new mandatory social media screening for applicants. This additional vetting requires more processing time, forcing the embassy to reschedule interviews set for December into March.

What should I do if my H-1B interview was rescheduled?

You must attend your new appointment date provided by the embassy. If you go on your original date, you will be denied entry. Check your email and the official visa portal for updates.

What are the new social media rules for H-1B visas?

Applicants and their H-4 dependents must keep their social media profiles publicly viewable. US officials will review posts, connections, and online activities as part of the security assessment.

How long will these visa delays last?

Currently, interviews are being rescheduled for March 2025. The timeline depends on how long the new social media vetting takes. Further delays are possible if the screening process encounters backlogs.

Is this delay affecting other types of US visas?

The new social media rule specifically targets H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. Similar screening is already standard for F-1 student visas and J-1 exchange visitor visas.