An H-1B worker has shared how a routine transfer petition has turned into a long and stressful wait. The case has been pending for over 250 days, leaving the worker unable to plan travel to India without serious risk.
The Indian professional explained on social media that a planned two month visit to India now feels impossible. Any travel outside the US could reset the process and undo months of waiting.
Although the worker holds a valid H-1B visa stamp from a previous employer, the transfer to a new company remains under review. Premium processing offers little comfort, as a decision would still take at least 15 days.
The worker believes that if approval arrives while staying in India, the new I-797 approval notice could be couriered. This document is expected to help with re-entry into the US through immigration checks.
However, others with similar experiences have advised against travelling abroad during a pending transfer. Leaving the US could shift the case to consular processing and possibly trigger the new $100,000 fee under unclear policy rules.
Adding to the stress are severe US visa appointment delays in India. Many applicants report no available interview slots throughout 2026, making timely return highly uncertain.
Despite holding a valid visa stamp, the worker has effectively been stuck in the US for more than eight months. Administrative delays have forced the cancellation of long overdue travel plans to India.
