11 December 2025 | Pre-scheduled interviews for thousands of H-1B visa applicants in India have been unexpectedly postponed by several months. This decision comes as U.S. immigration authorities implement enhanced vetting measures, focusing on applicants’ social media posts and online profiles.
Numerous applicants, whose interviews were set for next week, received emails from U.S. immigration officials notifying them that their appointments have been rescheduled to as late as May next year. This mass cancellation is expected to cause significant delays for applicants hoping to return to the U.S. for work.
Impact of Rescheduling on H-1B Applicants
The rescheduling affects all applicants who had appointments from December 15 onwards. Many of these individuals are currently in India and are unable to return to the U.S. without valid H-1B visas, which they cannot obtain until their new interview dates. For instance, those scheduled for interviews on December 15 have been informed that their new dates will be sometime in March.
Specific Cases of Postponement
Applicants with appointments on December 19 are now looking at late May for their interviews. This delay not only impacts their employment plans but also adds to the uncertainty surrounding the visa application process. It has been reported that several other categories of visa applicants are also facing postponements due to the new scrutiny measures.
Broader Context of Visa Delays
The increased focus on social media profiles reflects a broader trend in U.S. immigration policy aimed at ensuring thorough vetting of applicants. As the situation develops, applicants are advised to stay updated on their visa status and prepare for potential changes in the process.
As the U.S. authorities continue to implement these measures, the ripple effects on the H-1B visa system could lead to longer processing times and increased anxiety among applicants.
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