Visa interview appointments for thousands of applicants are being delayed following the introduction of enhanced social media screening by the US immigration department. While authorities had initially indicated that appointments would be postponed to March or April, officials now acknowledge that the extensive vetting process is taking longer than expected, pushing interview slots further back. Reports suggest that some appointments have been deferred until the end of October 2026.
The prolonged delays have created uncertainty among applicants, particularly those who have already secured employment in the United States and booked travel tickets. Frustration is growing, with protests reported near visa application centres as applicants demand clarity on timelines and procedures.
Alphabet's Google has advised some employees on US visas to avoid international travel due to delays at embassies, Business Insider reported on Friday, citing an internal email.
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Amid the uncertainty, technology major Google has issued an internal advisory cautioning its employees against leaving the United States. The company warned that staff requiring visa stamping for re-entry could face waiting periods lasting several months. In view of the delays, Google has advised employees holding US visas to avoid international travel for the time being and has communicated this guidance through an internal email.
According to Google’s legal team, the expanded social media vetting is not limited to H-1B visas but also affects L-1, F, J, and M visa categories. However, the advisory does not clarify the implications for employees who are already outside the United States, leaving further questions unanswered as the backlog continues to grow.