Beginning December 8, 2025, U.S. consular posts across India began rescheduling H-1B and H-4 visa interviews that were initially set for December 15 or later. Applicants have reported receiving notifications that their interviews have been unilaterally postponed, often by several months. Many are now being reassigned to March 2026.
Why are H-1B and H-4 visa appointments being delayed? This change aligns with the Department of State’s implementation of a new online presence review, an expanded vetting process that includes examination of an applicant’s social media and digital activity. The new requirement applies to all H-1B applicants and their dependents. Consular officers have indicated that the added processing time has reduced the number of interviews that can be conducted each day. Posts in Hyderabad and Chennai have been among those issuing rescheduling notices.
What are H-1B and H-4 visa applicants in India being told? Applicants affected by this change are being instructed not to appear for their interviews on the original date. They must attend only on the newly assigned date listed in the updated appointment notice. Biometric appointments at Visa Application Centers (VACs) are not impacted and should be attended as scheduled initially.
What if the applicant cannot attend the rescheduled interview? Applicants who cannot attend the new interview date may reschedule online. However, this option is limited to a single opportunity and only if the visa fee receipt is still valid. Visa fee receipts are typically valid for one year from the date of payment. If the receipt has expired, applicants must repay the fee before they can secure a new appointment. Missing or canceling the rescheduled interview may result in the loss of the fee and additional delays.
Why are they rescheduling for 3+ months out? This situation follows another policy change implemented earlier this year, which now requires applicants to apply for a visa in their country of nationality or residence. As a result, applicants can no longer seek appointments in third countries to avoid long wait times. This shift has significantly increased demand at consular posts in India and is contributing to further delays.
These combined changes may have a profound impact on individuals planning international travel, especially those whose visas have expired or who are seeking first-time H-1B or H-4 visa issuance. Delays in visa appointments could result in extended stays abroad and potential interruptions to employment or family timelines.
Will we see this occur in other countries? At this time, it is unclear whether similar rescheduling is taking place at U.S. consulates outside India. No formal guidance has been issued to confirm whether the online presence review is affecting operations at posts in other countries. The situation is still evolving, and additional updates may follow.
Please plan ahead: We suggest that potentially impacted individuals avoid non-essential travel in the immediate future due to uncertainties around scheduling an appointment. Those who must travel should regularly monitor their visa appointment profiles for updates and instructions. Employees affected by appointment delays should inform their employers as soon as possible to allow time to plan for remote work or staffing needs.
As consulates adjust to these new procedures, further shifts in appointment availability may occur. Early preparation, close monitoring, and ongoing communication will be essential in managing the impact of these changes. Please contact us with any questions so we can strategize together.