With Trump returning to office and all the news about H1Bs swirling around, many H1B visa holders are grappling with the decision to proceed with visa stamping or to hold off. The combination of delays, shifting policies, and backlogs at consulates complicates this choice. Is it wiser to wait, or could that lead to even more complications down the line?
A software engineer at a mid-sized SaaS company found himself in this predicament. His H1B extension has been approved, and he secured a dropbox appointment in Chennai. However, after hearing about 221g delays that left applicants stranded for months, he began to feel anxious. If anything went awry, he could end up stuck in India with no clear timeline for his return.
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Others have had varying experiences. Some received their visas in just two weeks without any issues, while others encountered lengthy administrative processing delays. The unpredictability of consulates is evident—some cases are resolved quickly, while others linger for months without any updates.
While waiting might appear to be a safer route, it’s uncertain whether conditions will improve. Visa regulations could shift, appointment availability may remain scarce, and delays could persist. Many believe it’s preferable to tackle the process now rather than face greater uncertainty in the future.
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For those who choose to travel, having a contingency plan is essential. Monitoring consulate trends, preparing for potential delays, and ensuring job flexibility can be beneficial. Ultimately, the best decision hinges on individual circumstances and the level of risk one is prepared to accept.
