Thousands of Indian Visa Appointments Canceled Amid U.S. Policy Shake-Up

The number of Indians traveling to the United States has surged in recent years, and there is no sign of this trend slowing down. However, recent changes in U.S. visa procedures have created significant uncertainty for many.

Large-scale cancellations of H1B and H4 visa interviews at U.S. consulates across India have disrupted the plans of numerous families. Applicants who had confirmed December appointments were suddenly notified that their interviews were either canceled or postponed to much later dates, with some rescheduled only in early or mid-2026. This has left many stranded in India, unsure of when they can return to their jobs, schools, or daily routines in the United States.

The disruptions come amid the U.S. government’s introduction of a new online presence review, which involves deeper scrutiny of applicants’ public social media activity. This additional screening has slowed down visa processing and significantly reduced the number of interviews consulates can conduct each day.

Cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, and Mumbai have seen hundreds of interview slots canceled, causing panic among visa holders already facing tight timelines. Families report emotional and financial stress, with some members stuck in India while others remain in the U.S. Concerns over job security, visa lapses, and school interruptions for children are growing.

With appointments unavailable for months, applicants are urging U.S. consulates to provide clarity and restore interview capacity as soon as possible.

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