Hyderabad/New Delhi: The United States government under President Donald Trump has intensified scrutiny of foreign workers, introducing tighter restrictions on H-1B and other employment-based visa applicants. Adding to the uncertainty, H-1B visa interview appointments at US consulates in India have now been pushed as far as 2027 due to severe backlogs.
US missions in major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata are witnessing unprecedented demand. Officials have deferred already booked appointments by nearly 18 months. The delays began in December last year, with interview slots initially moved from March 2026 to June and October, before being extended further into 2027.
The development has impacted thousands of Indian IT professionals, many of whom are now forced to cancel urgent travel plans or delay personal commitments.
Immigration experts have issued advisories urging H-1B holders in the US to avoid traveling to India for visa stamping. Under current rules, applicants must complete stamping in their home country, as the option to use US consulates in third countries has been withdrawn.
H-1B interview slots now pushed to 2027.
U.S. consulates in India have effectively run out of H-1B visa interview slots. Many applicants are now being told their earliest chance for visa stamping is 2027.
From an immigration attorney:
“I have not heard about any new visa… pic.twitter.com/Av5S4Dd2KF
— Hany Girgis (@SanDiegoKnight) January 26, 2026
Experts warn that traveling to India for stamping carries significant risk. If interviews are postponed or canceled, returning to the US could become difficult, potentially affecting employment status.
According to reports, several professionals who recently traveled to India for visa processing had their interviews canceled at the last minute. Regular appointment slots are largely unavailable until 2027.
Although the US State Department previously announced plans to deploy additional staff to reduce waiting times, the situation on the ground remains unchanged. While digital processing and drop-box facilities continue, applicants requiring in-person interviews are facing prolonged delays.
Immigration specialists advise H-1B holders to remain in the US and explore domestic visa extension options until appointment availability improves.