Wed Dec 10 19:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
The United States is expanding its “online presence review” for H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents, beginning December 15, 2025. This heightened scrutiny, coupled with a previously imposed $100,000 annual fee on fresh H-1B applications, is aimed at ensuring applicants do not pose a security risk and are eligible for the visa. This new vetting process is resulting in mass cancellation and rescheduling of visa interviews, pushing back appointments by several months, impacting a significant number of applicants, particularly from India, which accounts for 71% of approved H-1B applications. Applicants are advised not to attend previously scheduled interviews and to await their new appointment dates.
News Article:
US Tightens H-1B Visa Scrutiny, Delaying Interviews for Thousands of Applicants
NEW DELHI – The United States is set to expand its “online presence review” for H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents starting December 15th, 2025, causing significant delays in the visa application process. The US Embassy confirmed the move on Wednesday, stating that the increased scrutiny aims to ensure applicants pose no security risk and meet visa eligibility requirements.
This added layer of vetting comes on top of a $100,000 annual fee imposed on fresh H-1B visa applications in September, a move criticized for potentially hindering employment opportunities for foreign workers.
The new online presence review and increased fees have already led to mass cancellations and rescheduling of visa interviews. Applicants whose interviews were scheduled for December are now receiving new dates in March or as late as May of next year, according to affected applicants.
The US Embassy urged visa applicants not to attend their previously scheduled interviews and to await their new appointment dates. “Arriving on your previously scheduled appointment date will result in your being denied admittance to the Embassy or Consulate,” the embassy stated.
The exact number of impacted applicants is unknown, but delays are expected to affect a large number of individuals, particularly from India, which accounts for 71% of all approved H-1B applications.
The H-1B visa program allows US companies to employ foreign workers with specialized skills. The delays could significantly impact companies relying on this program to fill critical positions and individuals seeking opportunities in the US.
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