The United States has tightened scrutiny of non-immigrant visa holders, triggering delays in visa interviews, limiting where applicants can seek visa stamping, and expanding social media vetting — developments that could disrupt travel and employment for thousands of foreign professionals, particularly Indians.
According to US immigration attorney Aparna Dave, visa applicants across categories such as H-1B, F-1, and J-1 are already facing postponed interviews as consulates conduct more extensive background checks. She advised visa holders to avoid international travel unless absolutely necessary, warning that even valid visas now carry heightened re-entry risks.
Dave said new rules have effectively ended the long-standing practice of third-country visa stamping, forcing applicants to seek visa appointments only in their country of residence or citizenship. She also highlighted increased monitoring of applicants’ social media activity, noting that accounts may need to be made public for review.
Visa delays are being compounded by enhanced vetting at ports of entry, where US Customs and Border Protection officers can examine phones and social media, potentially leading to secondary screening and employment disruptions.
Clarifying common confusion, Dave explained that visa validity differs from lawful stay in the US, which is governed by the I-94 record. Individuals do not need to obtain a new visa stamp unless they travel outside the country.
Addressing the proposed $100,000 H-1B application fee, she clarified that it would apply only to first-time H-1B workers entering the US from abroad, with the cost borne by employers.
With Indians forming the largest group of H-1B and F-1 visa holders in the US, any tightening of travel rules, vetting standards, or costs is being closely watched due to its impact on employment, education, and family mobility.
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