H-1B Visa Crisis: New Scrutiny Strands Thousands in India, Jobs at Risk

• Thousands of Indian IT professionals on H-1B visas are stranded in India after US embassies canceled renewal appointments.
• Appointments have been pushed back significantly, with many receiving dates as late as mid-2026 or 2027.
• The delay is due to a new 'deep scrutiny' policy by the US State Department, including mandatory social media reviews.
• Professionals, many of whom have lived in the US for years, fear losing their jobs due to prolonged absence.
• The crisis also impacts H-4 visa holders (families), disrupting the lives of those established in the US.

Why It Matters: New US visa scrutiny policy has stranded thousands of H-1B professionals in India, jeopardizing their jobs and lives.