Archive · 1 Feb 2026
H-1B Visa Changes Impact Indian Professionals
Many people with H-1B visas, which allow them to work in the US, are facing big problems.
The US consulates in India have delayed visa appointments until 2027.
This means people can't go back to the US, and some might lose their jobs.
The US government is also checking social media, which takes more time and causes more delays.
Lawyers warn people not to travel outside the US right now.
If someone loses their job, they might have to pay a big fee to find a new job in the US.
This is making it very hard for people who want to work in the US.
The US is also changing how they pick people for H-1B visas.
They will now give preference to people with higher skills and salaries.
This could be good for experienced professionals but might make it harder for fresh graduates and lower-paid workers.
The registration fee is $215 per applicant, and companies must register between March 4 and March 19.
H-1B visa appointments in India delayed until 2027, causing job instability for holders.
US consulates implementing social media vetting, further delaying the process.
Lawyers advise against traveling outside the US due to potential visa appointment issues.
New $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions and drop in sponsorship from 10.9% to 1.9%.
USCIS introduces a new selection process favoring higher-skilled and higher-paid applicants, with a registration fee of $215 per applicant.
- Who
- H-1B visa holders and applicants, especially Indian professionals
- What
- Changes in H-1B visa registration process and delays in appointments
- When
- Registration period begins March 4, delays until 2027
- Where
- US consulates in India and USCIS
- Why
- Due to new selection process favoring higher-skilled and higher-paid applicants, and social media vetting
- Visa Type
- H-1B and H-4
- Appointment Delay
- Until 2027
- Impacted Parties
- H-1B visa holders and applicants
- Policy Change
- Social media vetting
- New Fee
- $100,000 for new H-1B petitions
- Sponsorship Drop
- From 10.9% in 2023 to 1.9% in 2025
- Registration Fee
- $215 per applicant
- Registration Period
- March 4 to March 19
- Notification Date
- March 31
- Indian Applicants
- More than 70% of approved H-1B applicants in 2024
