H-1B Visa Revocation Leaves Traveler Stranded

A US work visa holder was stranded abroad this month. The individual received a sudden visa revocation notice. It came just days before their planned return flight.

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The case highlights growing uncertainties for skilled foreign workers. Stricter screening policies are now in effect. This incident is causing alarm among the H-1B community.

An Indian professional on an H-1B visa faced a crisis. They were visiting India due to a family emergency. Their father had a serious health issue.

The traveler had a return ticket booked for December 23. A shocking email arrived on December 15. The US Department of State had revoked their visa.

The notice came from the US Consulate in Kolkata. It stated the visa was revoked. New information suggested possible ineligibility after the visa was issued.

The holder was instructed not to travel. They must apply for a brand new visa. No specific reason for the action was given.

The individual claims no prior criminal history. There were no charges like a DUI. The revocation happened while they were legally outside the US.

This sudden action has left them stranded. They must now navigate a new application. This process is costly and time-consuming.

According to Reuters, visa processing backlogs are significant. Unpredictable administrative reviews add to the stress. Cases like this are becoming more visible.

Tighter Scrutiny and New Policies for Applicants

This incident coincides with stricter US immigration rules. A new social media screening policy is active. Officials now review applicants’ online profiles.

Visa applicants must provide their social media handles. They are asked to keep profiles public for review. The goal is to assess national security risks.

The State Department defends this approach. Every visa decision is a security decision, they say. The policy aims to identify potential threats.

This extra layer of scrutiny is mandatory. It applies to various visa categories. The H-1B program is included.

Furthermore, a major fee change has been enacted. Former President Trump imposed a one-time $100,000 fee. It applies to new H-1B visas.

The order was signed in September. Officials argue the program has been misused. They say it sometimes replaces American workers.

The US grants 85,000 H-1B visas yearly. Indian professionals receive a large portion. The new fee could drastically reduce applications.

These combined factors create a challenging climate. Compliance has become more complex. The risk of unexpected revocation appears higher.

Navigating the Current Immigration Landscape

Experts advise extreme caution for visa holders. Traveling outside the US now carries inherent risk. Even a valid visa offers no absolute guarantee.

Legal professionals recommend consulting an attorney before travel. Understanding the latest policy updates is critical. Proactive preparation is the only defense.

The recent H-1B visa revocation case underscores a volatile period for work immigration. Professionals must stay informed on evolving policies. The pathway to the US is becoming less predictable.

Disclaimer: This article reports on recent developments in US immigration policy. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified immigration attorney for guidance on their specific situation.

References: Information was collected from the report by Shweta Kukreti for Hindustan Times, with corroborating context from general reporting by Reuters on US immigration policy.