US delays H-1B visa interviews to 2026 amid new social media vetting rule

• US H-1B visa interviews in India have been abruptly rescheduled from December to early 2026, stranding many applicants.
• The delays are linked to a new social media vetting rule, effective December 15, 2025, allowing visa officers to review accounts for hostile content.
• The US Embassy in India confirmed the rescheduling, advising applicants not to attend original appointment dates.
• Immigration experts warn of significant professional and personal disruption, including potential job losses for H-1B workers stuck in India.
• This new vetting rule expands mandatory screening for H-1B workers and their H-4 dependents, requiring public social media profiles.

Why It Matters: H-1B visa delays and new social media vetting could cost applicants their jobs.