Archive · 24 Dec 2025
US Visa Delays Impact H-1B Holders
The US government is making it harder for people to get H-1B visas, which are special work permits.
They are checking social media accounts, which is causing long delays.
Many people from India, who make up most H-1B visa holders, are stuck because their appointments are being pushed back to 2026.
Companies like Microsoft are telling their employees to come back to the US before their visas expire.
The US is also changing the system to give visas to people who earn more money.
This is making it tough for new graduates and those who earn less.
People are worried about losing their jobs and being away from their families and homes.
US visa processing delays and social media vetting are causing H-1B appointment rescheduling up to June 2026.
Microsoft and other tech companies warn employees to return to the US before visa expiry.
Trump administration replaces the H-1B lottery system with a wage-based selection process.
Indian professionals, who make up 71% of H-1B visa holders, are significantly affected by the delays and new policies.
Expanded social media vetting and a $100,000 application fee are contributing to the processing backlogs.
- Who
- H-1B visa holders, especially Indian professionals
- What
- Delays in visa processing and appointment rescheduling
- When
- Amid Trump administration's social media vetting and new wage-based system
- Where
- United States and consulates in India (Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata)
- Why
- Extended processing times due to social media checks and new visa policies
- Visa Type
- H-1B
- Affected Locations
- Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata
- Latest Rescheduling Date
- June 2026
- Application Fee
- $100,000
- New System
- Wage-based selection
- Impacted Professionals
- Indian professionals (71%)
- Social Media Vetting
- Expanded to H-1B applicants
