US Flags Delays in H-1B and H-4 Visa Processing After New Rules Take Effect

The United States has warned of prolonged processing times for H-1B and H-4 visas following new rules that came into effect on December 15, causing uncertainty for thousands of Indian professionals and their families. The delays stem from expanded social media vetting as part of enhanced background checks.

While US embassies and consulates continue to accept applications, the US Embassy in India has advised applicants to apply well in advance, citing “additional processing time” for these visa categories. Under the new rules, applicants must disclose their social media usernames used over the past five years across major platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, even if the accounts are inactive.

According to US officials, the move is aimed at strengthening security checks and preventing misuse of the H-1B programme while allowing companies to hire skilled foreign workers. However, the impact on Indian professionals has been severe. Many visa appointments scheduled after December 15 have reportedly been pushed as far as October 2026, leaving applicants stranded outside the US.

Several individuals have already lost their jobs due to the uncertainty, while others are seeking permission to work remotely from abroad. Employers, however, are reluctant to allow this, citing labour and visa compliance issues. Major tech firms such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, and ServiceNow have reportedly advised their H-1B and H-4 employees against international travel to avoid being stuck overseas.

The situation has raised concerns among Indian professionals, who fear job losses and prolonged separation from families. With delays mounting, the issue is expected to remain a major concern for visa applicants in the months ahead.