Thu Dec 11 04:03:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
Thousands of Indian H1B and H4 visa aspirants who traveled to India for visa stamping are facing significant disruptions as their physical interview appointments have been unexpectedly rescheduled by the US Consulate. Many interviews have been pushed back to March, April, or even May of the following year, jeopardizing their jobs and family situations. Affected individuals are expressing their frustration and seeking solutions on social media. The US Embassy has acknowledged the issue and advises applicants to adhere to their new appointment dates. The exact reasons for the rescheduling and the total number of individuals impacted are currently unknown.
News Article:
US Visa Interview Delays Leave Indian H1B, H4 Aspirants Stranded
HYDERABAD, December 11, 2025 – Thousands of Indian citizens seeking H1B and H4 visas are facing uncertainty and potential job losses after the US Consulate unexpectedly rescheduled their visa interview appointments. Individuals who traveled to India for the crucial visa stamping process are now reporting interview dates pushed back by several months, with many appointments now scheduled for March, April, or May of 2026.
The sudden rescheduling has sparked widespread concern among affected applicants, who rely on these visas to work and live in the United States. Social media is flooded with pleas for help, as many face the prospect of losing their jobs if they cannot return to the US in a timely manner.
“I’m currently in India and recently got done with my biometric appointment on December 5. My consular appointment was supposed to be on December 15 which got rescheduled to March 2026. I am supposed to fly back on January 1, if I don’t go I might lose out on my job. I’m trying to reschedule my appointment but there are no slots available. Please help!” said one aspirant on social media.
H4 visa applicants, often spouses and dependents of H1B visa holders, are also impacted, leaving families separated. One such applicant shared, “Just 1 day before, we completed biometrics for H4. Today morning, we are given a good morning surprise that your appointment is cancelled and moved to 5 months later. Now, what a mother will do without her nine year child who is in US, and she came to India for appointment.”
The US Embassy in India issued a statement acknowledging the rescheduling, advising applicants to attend their new appointment dates. However, the statement offered little explanation for the delays.
The situation has left many in a state of limbo, with urgent calls for the US Consulate to provide clarity and explore options to expedite the interview process. The Hindu has reached out to the US Consulate in Hyderabad for further information and will update this story as details become available.
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