One Wrong Answer Costs H-1B Visa: Indian Worker Shares How US Job Dream Shattered

For Indians aspiring to work in the United States, the H-1B visa remains the most sought-after gateway. However, securing it has become increasingly challenging. Applicants must now answer every question during the visa interview with utmost accuracy—any hesitation or incorrect response can lead to immediate rejection.

Many H-1B aspirants have reported being denied visas over minor mistakes, even after securing a difficult interview appointment. The US issues H-1B visas for jobs in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and education, with Indian nationals being among the top beneficiaries. Most Indians currently working in the US entered through the H-1B route.

Social Media Disclosure Now Mandatory
Since December 15, the US Department of State has started reviewing applicants’ social media accounts before issuing visas. Applicants who fail to provide these details risk outright rejection.

A worker shared his experience on Reddit, explaining that during his H-1B interview, the visa officer asked whether he had disclosed all his social media accounts on the DS-160 form. He responded “No.” The officer did not even take his passport and asked him to fill out Form DS-5535, which requires detailed disclosure of all social media accounts, ensuring they are public. Shortly after, his application was marked “Refused,” effectively rejecting his visa.

Currently, visa officers are questioning both first-time applicants and those seeking visa stamping about new rules regarding public social media accounts. Any applicant unaware of these rules or failing to disclose their accounts faces a high risk of rejection.

What is the DS-160 Form?
DS-160 is an online form required for all US visa applications. Applicants must complete it before their visa interview. The form requires disclosure of social media handles used in the last five years, including Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, Reddit, Snapchat, Pinterest, Tumblr, WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, and others.

With scrutiny intensifying, prospective H-1B applicants are advised to ensure complete transparency in their applications to avoid jeopardizing their US job dreams.