Several H-1B visa holders are reportedly stranded in India following fresh social media vetting norms introduced by the US State Department, leading to prolonged delays in visa renewals despite approved emergency requests.
In one such case shared on Reddit, an applicant said their emergency interview request had been approved due to an urgent need to return to the United States for their baby’s medical treatment. However, despite this approval, no interview slots were available on the appointment portal.
“I am already in India and my emergency interview request was approved… but I am unable to see any slots available,” the applicant wrote, adding that repeated attempts with customer support yielded no resolution.
December interviews pushed to 2026
According to multiple applicants, interviews initially scheduled for mid to late December have now been postponed to March or even April 2026. While a few centres reportedly offer limited emergency slots in January, others — including major hubs — show no availability at all, even for approved emergency cases.
This disruption is particularly severe as December is traditionally the peak travel period for H-1B holders seeking visa stamping, coinciding with the US holiday season.
Indian professionals hit hardest
The delays have significant implications for Indian professionals, who account for nearly 70–75 per cent of all H-1B visas issued annually. Many of them work in critical STEM roles and are unable to return to their jobs, placing strain on both families and US employers.
The H-1B visa allows US companies to employ skilled foreign workers, and any interruption in renewals can result in extended unpaid leave or job insecurity.
Online reactions reflect growing anxiety
Other Reddit users echoed similar concerns, with several stating they were in the “same boat”, particularly in cities like Chennai. Some suggested exploring other consular centres, while others advised consulting reputed immigration firms rather than relying on unofficial agents.
Social media vetting adds new layer of scrutiny
The issue follows the introduction of stricter screening measures initiated during the administration of Donald Trump, under which visa applicants and H-4 dependants are subject to enhanced social media checks. Applicants were earlier instructed to make their social media profiles public as part of the vetting process.
While authorities maintain the policy is aimed at strengthening security, affected families say the lack of coordination between approvals and appointment availability has created distressing and time-sensitive situations