US H-1B Visa Interviews in India Face Significant Delays Amid Expanded Social Media Reviews

Widespread Rescheduling Impacts H-1B and H-4 Applicants

US consular posts across India have initiated a mass rescheduling of H-1B and H-4 visa interviews, with many appointments originally set for December 15, 2025, and later, now deferred to March, April, May, or even July 2026. This significant delay stems from the US State Department's implementation of an expanded online presence review for visa applicants, which became effective on December 15, 2025.

The new vetting process requires H-1B workers and their H-4 dependents to make their social media profiles public for review by consular officers. This enhanced security screening has led to a reduction in the daily interview capacity at US missions in India, necessitating the widespread rescheduling. Indian nationals are particularly affected, as they constitute over 70% of all approved H-1B visas.

'Prudential Revocations' Add to Uncertainty

In addition to interview delays, some H-1B and H-4 visa holders currently in the US have reportedly received notifications of their temporary working visas being 'prudentially revoked'. A 'prudential revocation' is defined as a temporary, precautionary cancellation by the Department of State (DOS) when eligibility concerns are suspected, rather than a permanent denial of the visa.

While a prudential revocation does not immediately affect an individual's lawful status within the US, it means that if the visa holder leaves the country, they may be unable to re-enter until the underlying issue is resolved. Immigration attorneys note that these revocations are occurring even in cases where applicants had prior interactions with law enforcement but no convictions, with previously cleared issues now being re-examined.

Operational Constraints and Applicant Impact

The US consulates have cited 'operational constraints' due to the increased scrutiny as the primary reason for reducing the number of visa applicants interviewed daily. This has resulted in thousands of applicants receiving emails notifying them of their rescheduled appointments. Applicants are strictly advised not to appear for their originally scheduled interview dates, as they will be denied admittance.

The new policy also coincides with restrictions on third-country national (TCN) visa processing, further limiting options for individuals seeking visa stamping outside their home country. While biometrics appointments remain valid, the uncertainty surrounding interview dates has created significant challenges for professionals and their employers, potentially disrupting assignments, onboarding processes, and project deliverables. Requests for emergency appointments are generally not expected to be successful, except in rare humanitarian cases.

Looking Ahead

The US State Department's directive, announced on December 3, 2025, aims to enhance vetting by reviewing applicants' online presence, a measure previously applied to student and exchange visitor visas. This shift towards more intensive, technology-driven vetting is expected to contribute to longer wait times globally, especially at high-volume posts. Employers are urged to monitor updates closely and prepare for potential extended absences of their H-1B employees.