Tensions Rise for Indians on H-1B Visa as U.S. Embassy Issues Worldwide Alert

Washington/Delhi: Indian professionals seeking employment in the U.S. face growing uncertainty following a worldwide alert issued by the American embassy regarding H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. The alert, announced on 22 December, expands the screening of visa applicants’ social media accounts and online presence as part of the U.S. State Department’s efforts to prevent misuse of the H-1B program and ensure companies recruit international talent responsibly.

The new protocol requires consular officers to review applicants’ social media profiles, public digital footprints, and online activity during the standard visa screening process. While intended to strengthen the program, the alert has raised concerns among Indian applicants, who fear delays and complications in obtaining visas.

Corporate Caution and Travel Advisories
Tech giants including Apple, Google, and Microsoft have urged H-1B and H-4 visa employees to avoid international travel for the time being. Apple’s immigration team advised employees without valid visa stamps to postpone travel, while Microsoft highlighted that the new social media screenings are causing appointment rescheduling and stamping delays. Employees currently outside the U.S. have been warned to return before their existing visa expires.

Visa Applications Continue Despite Delays
The U.S. embassy and consulates continue to accept and process H-1B and H-4 visa applications, urging applicants to apply as early as possible and prepare for longer processing times.

H-1B Visa: A Critical Gateway for Skilled Indians
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa allowing U.S. companies to temporarily hire foreign professionals in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, education, and space research. Only 65,000 H-1B visas are issued annually, with an additional 20,000 reserved for applicants with U.S. advanced degrees.

As global scrutiny increases, Indian professionals eyeing U.S. opportunities now face additional hurdles, making early planning and careful compliance more crucial than ever.