Sun Jan 25 10:33:37 UTC 2026: ### US Visa Delays Plague Indian Professionals, Appointments Pushed to 2027

The Story:
Indian professionals seeking H-1B visa stamping are facing significant delays, with US consulates across India pushing interview dates as far back as 2027. This disruption is affecting thousands of individuals employed in the United States and is attributed to policy changes implemented by the US government, including mandatory social media screening and the elimination of third-country visa stamping options for Indian nationals. The visa offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata are struggling with the demand.

These changes, coupled with a new wage-based lottery system prioritizing higher-paid workers, are creating a backlog that is impacting US employers reliant on skilled foreign workers. The delays began in December 2025, with initial reschedulings to March 2026, then to October 2026, and now extending into 2027.

Key Points:

  • US consulates in India are rescheduling H-1B visa stamping interviews to 2027.
  • Delays are attributed to new US policies, including mandatory social media screening introduced on December 15, 2025, and the end of third-country visa stamping for Indian nationals.
  • USCIS published new rules for the 2027 fiscal year on December 29, 2025, maintaining the annual cap of 85,000 visas (with 20,000 reserved for US postgraduate degree holders).
  • A new wage-based lottery system will prioritize H-1B applicants based on salary levels, with Level IV workers receiving four lottery entries, Level III three, Level II two, and Level I one.
  • US employers, particularly in technology, healthcare, and education, are experiencing project delays and increased costs due to the visa delays.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US H-1B visa program is undergoing significant changes that are creating substantial obstacles for Indian professionals.
  • Increased scrutiny and policy adjustments are leading to increased processing times and backlogs.
  • US employers are facing operational challenges due to the delays and are exploring alternative strategies, such as remote work or hiring more US citizens.
  • Prolonged visa delays could negatively impact the US’s ability to attract global talent.
  • The delays highlight a potential shift in US immigration policy and its impact on international skilled workers.

Impact Analysis:

The delays in H-1B visa processing for Indian professionals represent a significant disruption with far-reaching consequences.

  • Economic Impact: US industries heavily reliant on specialized foreign talent, such as technology and healthcare, will likely experience project delays, increased labor costs, and potentially reduced competitiveness. Indian IT companies with US operations may be forced to increase local hiring of American citizens, which could alter their business models.
  • Talent Acquisition: The extended delays may deter highly skilled professionals from seeking employment in the US, potentially leading them to pursue opportunities in other countries with more streamlined visa processes. This could diminish the US’s appeal as a global hub for innovation and technological advancement.
  • Geopolitical Implications: The changes in US visa policy could strain relations with India, a major source of skilled workers for the US economy.
  • Long-Term Workforce Planning: US companies may need to reassess their workforce planning strategies, focusing on domestic talent development and exploring alternative sourcing models to mitigate the risks associated with immigration policy uncertainties.

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