A fresh wave of H-1B visa delays has hit Indian applicants again. Your February interview slots are now moving to mid 2027. Many of you are seeing sudden reschedules after weeks of silence from US consulates.
Social media checks slow processing
The delays follow stricter visa checks that began on December 15, 2025. These rules require social media screening for H-1B and H-4 applicants. Your application now takes longer to review which has slowed already overloaded Indian consulates.
February appointments pushed to 2027
After January passed without issues many of you felt relieved. That hope has now broken. One Chennai applicant saw a February 18 interview moved to May 24, 2027 which shows how deep the backlog has grown.
All major consulates face overload
The problem is not limited to Chennai. Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi are also overwhelmed. Many of you report that biometrics in Mumbai and interviews in Chennai have both been shifted to next year without warning.
Workers avoid trips to India
These delays shocked H-1B workers who travelled to India in December to renew visas. Now many of you avoid planning trips home. You fear getting stuck outside the US and losing your ability to return to work.
Visa stamp and legal status differ
Your H-1B visa stamp allows you to enter the US. Your legal stay depends on the I-797 tied to your employer. This means you can stay in the US while waiting but you cannot travel abroad.
Big Tech issues travel warnings
Companies like Google and Microsoft have warned their H-1B staff to avoid travel. They know your return to the US remains uncertain during these delays. Many workers now stay put to protect their jobs.
More delays expected
Social media screening still remains active. Experts tell you to stay cautious about visa appointments. You should only travel when you are sure your slot will not get pushed further.
