A significant administrative backlog at US consulates in India has sparked a crisis, leaving hundreds of Indian professionals on H-1B visas stranded in their home country and drawing sharp criticism from sections of the American political right, including supporters of the MAGA movement.
The Stranding: Appointments Pushed to 2026
The core of the issue lies in a procedural requirement. Numerous Indian H-1B visa holders who returned to India earlier this year—often for holidays or family visits—underwent mandatory visa stamping at a US consulate. To their shock, they were informed that their scheduled appointments had been cancelled and rescheduled for dates as far out as 2026, starting from March-April. Without a fresh visa stamp in their passport, they are legally barred from re-entering the United States.
This situation has created immense personal and professional turmoil. Many workers now face uncertainty over their jobs, with questions looming about whether they can work remotely for their US employers from India and for how long. The requirement for stamping in one's country of origin was reinforced by the US administration in late 2023. Furthermore, since December 15, applicants for H-1B and dependent H-4 visas have been subjected to enhanced social media vetting, a process that has significantly slowed down appointment scheduling.
MAGA Backlash and Mockery on Social Media
The plight of these skilled workers has not elicited sympathy from certain quarters in the US. Instead, it has become fodder for mockery and political point-scoring by several figures associated with the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement. The son of former presidential candidate Nikki Haley, Nalin Haley, along with other commentators, joined in criticizing India's response to the situation.
Political commentator Eric Daugherty posted on X, "GOOD! Hire an American. No delays there." Another, Nick Sortor, wrote, "STRANDED. IN THEIR HOME COUNTRIES Just leave them there! Please! We DO NOT need them!" Commentator Laura Ingraham simply stated, "N-O." Other users questioned India's motives, with one asking why India wasn't fighting to keep these "brilliant individuals," suggesting the diaspora is a tool for influence and remittances.
Uncertain Future and Mounting Backlog
For the affected individuals, the reality is grim. Given the current massive backlog and the new, more rigorous screening procedures, experts and applicants anticipate a wait of at least six months to secure a new visa stamping date. This disruption impacts not just the workers and their families but also the American companies that rely on this specialized talent pool.
The crisis highlights the fragile nature of non-immigrant work visas and the severe personal consequences of administrative delays. It leaves hundreds in a state of limbo, caught between their careers in America and an indefinite, forced stay in India.
