US H-1B Visa Delay: Indian Workers May Wait Up to a Year for Appointments

Indian H-1B visa applicants may face long delays of up to 12 months due to new U.S. security procedures, leaving many workers stranded in India. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged delays in scheduling visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide, with India being the most affected.

Social Media Checks Cause Delay
The primary reason for the slowdown is the mandatory review of applicants’ social media profiles. U.S. embassy teams are now conducting detailed background checks, prioritizing security over speed, whereas previously efforts focused on fast-tracking visa processing.

Impact on Indian Workers
Many Indian professionals have already been selected in the H-1B lottery but cannot travel to the U.S. without a visa. Multinational companies such as Google and Apple have warned their H-1B employees to avoid international travel, as re-entry may be delayed or appointments may be canceled. Dependents of H-1B workers are also affected, facing similar uncertainties.

Global Issue
Similar delays have been reported in other countries like Ireland and Vietnam, where visa appointments are being postponed due to stringent checks. Several Indian workers experienced appointment cancellations in December, preventing their return to the U.S.

Advice for Applicants
The U.S. State Department recommends that applicants request appointments early. Visa scheduling may also change if embassy capacities are adjusted. Applicants are advised to remain vigilant and follow official updates to avoid unexpected travel disruptions.

This development highlights the increasing emphasis on security in U.S. visa processing, significantly impacting Indian professionals seeking employment under the H-1B program.