H-1B Visa Interview Dates Postponed

The US government's new policy regarding the H-1B visa has created new challenges for Indian professionals and their families. The US Department of State has suddenly changed the visa interview dates for H-1B visa holders and their dependents. Many of these individuals had scheduled interviews at the US embassy and consulates in India in the coming weeks and had already arrived with their families. However, they are now being given new dates and asked to attend only on those dates.

Several applicants' interviews have been canceled and rescheduled until March 2026. This change applies not only to H-1B visa holders but also to their dependents (H-4 visa holders). The US administration took this step in order to conduct a thorough review of the social media presence of all visa applicants. It has described this action as necessary for the security of the United States.

A spokesperson for the US embassy stated, "The US Department of State conducts a thorough review of all visa applicants, including a review of the social media and online presence of all non-immigrant categories, including students and visitors. Starting December 15, we will temporarily include all H-1B visa applicants and their dependents, along with H-4 visa applicants, in the social media screening process."

In every visa case, the necessary time will be taken to ensure that the applicant does not pose a security threat to the US and has credibly demonstrated their eligibility for the visa.