In a significant diplomatic move, the Government of India has officially conveyed its concerns to the United States over the abrupt postponement of interviews for thousands of H-1B visa applicants. The interviews, which were scheduled to begin in the middle of December 2025, have been delayed by several months, causing widespread uncertainty among Indian professionals.
Reason Behind the Sudden Postponement
The primary reason cited for this large-scale deferral is a need for more rigorous scrutiny. US authorities have decided to undertake a detailed examination of the social media posts and online profiles of the applicants. This enhanced vetting process, aimed at assessing backgrounds more thoroughly, has necessitated the rescheduling of interviews that were slated to occur from mid-December 2025 onwards.
India's Diplomatic Response
New Delhi has taken a proactive stance on the issue. Indian officials have formally "flagged these issues" with their American counterparts, expressing the anxiety and logistical challenges faced by thousands of Indian nationals. The communication underscores the impact such last-minute changes have on the lives and careers of applicants, many of whom have job offers and relocation plans contingent on visa approval.
Implications and Next Steps
The postponement, confirmed on 26 December 2025, has created a backlog and left applicants in limbo. While the US has the prerogative to implement its security protocols, the scale and timing of this action have prompted official dialogue. The Indian government's intervention highlights its role in advocating for its citizens abroad, especially in matters concerning the highly sought-after H-1B visa program, a critical channel for skilled Indian talent moving to the US.
Applicants are now advised to monitor official channels for new interview dates. This incident also brings into focus the increasing role of digital footprint analysis in global immigration processes, setting a precedent for future visa applications.
