The H-1B visa crisis in India continues to deepen as more appointment slots face sudden cancellations. Over the past few days, the situation has grown more chaotic for thousands of applicants.
All US visa appointments scheduled between December 29 and January 5 have now been rescheduled. This unexpected move has added to the uncertainty already surrounding the visa process.
Dropbox Removal Triggers Interview Backlog
The mass rescheduling comes after the sudden removal of Dropbox options. Visa applicants must now attend mandatory interviews along with social media vetting, increasing pressure on the system.
Immigration Timelines Thrown Off Track
Many immigrants say their entire immigration journey is now at risk. Several H-1B holders report that December appointments have been pushed as far as July 2026.
Last-Minute Notices Leave Applicants Stranded
Notifications are being sent barely two days before scheduled appointments. This has resulted in many immigrants getting stranded in India with no clear path forward.
Appointments Pushed to Late 2026
Some rescheduled appointments are now showing dates as late as August 2026. These extended delays have caused widespread frustration among affected applicants.
Job Losses Add to the Crisis
Being stuck in India has led to serious consequences for many H-1B holders. Some have lost their jobs after exhausting all available leave for travel.
Remote Work Restrictions Create Challenges
H-1B holders are not allowed to work remotely due to labour laws in the US. Retaining employment often depends on negotiating temporary remote work arrangements with employers.
Applicants Plead for Slot Cancellations
The scale of the crisis has pushed stranded workers to request others to cancel appointments. This could free up interview slots and allow them to return to the US.
No Stability in Visa Scheduling
Despite repeated attempts, rescheduling still shows no available slots for the rest of the year. The visa appointment system in India remains highly unstable.
