Indian nationals holding H-1B visas, student visas, and even green cards are facing increasing challenges when traveling to the United States. Immigration attorneys have reported a surge in visa delays, intensified airport screenings, and unexpected detentions, even for individuals with valid documentation and years of legal residency.
Heightened Scrutiny at US Airports
Indian travelers, including those with valid visas and green cards, have encountered stricter immigration checks upon entering the US. Immigration experts warn that increased detentions and delays at airports are part of tightening visa policies, which have resulted in greater uncertainty for H-1B professionals, students, and green card holders.
Many Indian nationals have been stopped for additional questioning, placed under administrative processing, or even detained overnight by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. These measures have raised concerns about the growing unpredictability of the US immigration system, especially for those returning from personal or work-related trips abroad.
Major Impact on Indian Students and H-1B Holders
With over 3.5 lakh Indian students currently enrolled in US universities, many are now struggling with visa renewal challenges. A recent change in US visa interview waiver policies has particularly affected F-1 visa students transitioning to H-1B work visas.
Previously, students renewing visas of the same category within 48 months were eligible for an interview waiver. However, this time frame has now been drastically reduced to 12 months, leading to long waits for interview slots and increased chances of visa denials.
Students who leave the US for travel or academic reasons are being warned that they may face months-long delays when re-entering due to extensive background checks under administrative processing. Some students have reportedly been stuck outside the US for extended periods, unable to return to their studies or jobs.
H-1B visa holders are also experiencing renewal difficulties, especially those who have spent over a year outside the US. Even those with approved H-1B visas are not guaranteed re-entry, as consular officers retain the authority to reject applications and send them back to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for further review. This process can take several months, leaving many Indian professionals stranded.
Green Card Holders Facing Increased Scrutiny
The increased scrutiny of Indian green card holders has also become a growing concern. Immigration attorneys report that many permanent residents are facing secondary screenings and additional questioning at US airports.
In some cases, green card holders have been detained overnight, and reports have surfaced of CBP officers pressuring individuals to surrender their green cards. Retired Indian nationals who divide their time between India and the US appear to be particularly vulnerable to such actions.
Stricter Visa Interview Waiver Policies
A significant policy change by the US Department of State has further exacerbated visa processing delays. Previously, non-immigrant visa holders could renew their visas without an interview if their previous visa had expired within the last 48 months. Now, only those whose visas have expired within the last 12 months qualify for an interview waiver.
This change has created a major backlog, forcing hundreds of thousands of Indian professionals and students to compete for limited interview appointments at US consulates. The increased demand for visa slots has led to long wait times and heightened uncertainty for those hoping to return to the US.
Experts Advise Caution for Indian Travelers
Given the current situation, immigration experts are advising Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the US. Those who must travel are urged to plan ahead, expect long delays, and explore remote work options if necessary.
For green card holders, attorneys strongly recommend applying for US citizenship as soon as they become eligible to avoid potential future complications.
As visa policies continue to tighten and travel uncertainty rises, Indian nationals are being urged to stay informed, prepared, and cautious when planning their trips to the United States.
