Hundreds Stranded in India as U.S. Abruptly Cancels H-1B Visa Appointments

Hundreds of Indian professionals are stuck in India after their U.S. work visa appointments were abruptly cancelled. The mass cancellations occurred at American consulates between December 15 and 26. This period is popular for renewals as it aligns with the U.S. holiday season.

According to immigration lawyers, the cancellations were linked to new social media screening rules. The State Department is now prioritizing vetting over speed. This has created a major crisis for skilled workers on expired visas.

New Vetting Policy Creates Backlog and Uncertainty

Emails reviewed by The Washington Post show the State Department cited new screening protocols. The goal is to ensure no applicant poses a security threat. This has led to interviews being postponed for months.

The impact is severe. Workers are stranded without valid visas. Many fear losing their jobs in the United States. One Houston-based attorney said over 100 of her clients are affected.

The exact number is unknown but likely reaches thousands. The U.S. Embassy in India told applicants not to show up for old dates. Those who do will be denied entry to consular offices.

Broader Impact on U.S. Tech and Skilled Workforce

This situation highlights the tightening of U.S. immigration policy. The H-1B visa program is crucial for bringing specialized talent to America. Indian nationals receive the majority of these visas each year.

The delays disrupt lives and business operations. Companies rely on these workers for key roles. Prolonged absences can hurt project timelines and team stability.

For the workers, the stress is immense. They face financial strain and career uncertainty. Families are separated indefinitely due to the administrative shift.

The widespread cancellation of H-1B visa appointments underscores a significant shift toward stricter immigration vetting. This policy change is leaving a talented workforce in limbo and could have lasting effects on the flow of global tech talent.

Thought you’d like to know

Why were the H-1B visa appointments cancelled?

The U.S. State Department cancelled appointments to implement enhanced social media screening. This new vetting process requires more time for security checks before interviews can proceed.

How many people are affected by the delays?

While an exact number is not confirmed, immigration attorneys report hundreds, potentially thousands, of cases. Lawyers in both the U.S. and India are handling dozens of stranded clients each.

What should affected applicants do now?

Applicants must wait for a new interview date via email. They should not go to the consulate on their original appointment date. Following the rescheduled instruction is crucial.

How does this affect U.S. companies?

U.S. companies face disruptions as key employees are stranded abroad. This can delay projects and create staffing gaps in specialized fields like technology and engineering.

Is this related to recent U.S. visa proclamations?

Yes. The cancellations follow a broader Trump administration push to reform work visa programs. This includes new fees and stricter scrutiny of all applicants entering the country.