A fresh wave of uncertainty has hit Indian H-1B and H-4 applicants as several late-January 2026 visa slots have been rescheduled. This time, the delay is far more severe. Some applicants report their appointments have been pushed all the way to 2027.
Visa Slots Pushed Far Beyond Expected Delays
Earlier delays usually ranged between seven and eight months. However, recent rescheduling has gone much further. Applicants say the sudden changes have caused panic, confusion, and serious planning issues for families and professionals.
New Online Presence Review Triggers Backlog
The issue follows the US Department of State expanding its mandatory online-presence review to H-1B and H-4 applicants. This rule came into effect on December 15, 2025. Applicants are now required to keep all social media accounts public for scrutiny.
Consulates Struggle With Reduced Interview Capacity
US Consulates in India say the social media vetting process has sharply reduced daily interview capacity. As a result, appointment backlogs are growing rapidly. Many applicants have shared their experiences on online forums.
Specific Cases Highlight Severity of Rescheduling
A January 15, 2026 Mumbai slot was reportedly moved to February 8, 2027. A January 23 Chennai appointment shifted to February 16, 2027. Another applicant claimed a late January slot was pushed to March 2027.
Professionals Forced to Put US Jobs on Hold
Many H-1B holders had returned to India only to renew their visas. They had to pause their regular jobs in the US. Earlier this year, the Trump administration removed dropbox interview waivers, making in-person interviews mandatory.
Privacy Concerns and Legal Warnings Increase Anxiety
The expanded scrutiny has been criticised as a breach of privacy. Legal experts are advising Indian travellers not to rely on January and February H-1B appointments. So far, no other country has reported similar large-scale rescheduling.
Job Loss Fears Grow Among Indian H-1B Holders
Applicants say they cannot work remotely for nearly a year while waiting for new slots. Many claim they are losing jobs and facing financial stress. Thousands of families feel abandoned as official responses remain absent.
