• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Indian citizens holding H-1B visas, student visas (F-1), and green cards are facing increasing uncertainty when travelling to the United States. Immigration attorneys are strongly discouraging travel due to heightened risks of delays, denials, and detentions at US consulates and airports.

While India is not on the US travel ban list, legal experts warn that returning to the US is becoming more difficult. Many Indian travellers, especially those seeking visa renewals, are facing longer processing times and unexpected administrative reviews without clear explanations. This has left many stranded outside the US for months.

A significant concern for Indian travellers is the growing visa stamping backlog at US consulates abroad. Many individuals travelling for H-1B or F-1 visa renewals are experiencing extended delays, forcing them to remain outside the US for uncertain periods.

Immigration attorneys caution that administrative processing delays can stretch for weeks or even months, affecting work and study plans. Visa holders are being advised to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

Changes in Visa Interview Waiver Rules

The US State Department has made recent changes to the rules for visa interview waivers, commonly known as the "dropbox" process. Previously, if a non-immigrant visa (except B-1/B-2 visitor visas) had expired within 48 months, applicants could renew it without attending an interview.

However, under the new policy, this grace period has been reduced to just 12 months. This means that more people now have to attend in-person interviews, making the visa renewal process longer and more complicated.

Risk of Denial and Airport Detentions

Despite no official US travel ban on India, attorneys warn that Indian travelers are being subjected to increased scrutiny. Many are facing:

  • Tougher screenings at US airports

  • Delays in visa approvals and re-entry denials

  • Random detentions during immigration checks

For many, what was planned as a short trip home has turned into an extended stay abroad—and in some cases, a permanent block on re-entry, despite having valid visas.

What Should Indian Visa Holders Do?

Immigration lawyers advise Indian H-1B workers, students (F-1), and even green card holders to:

  • Reconsider travel plans outside the US

  • Check visa renewal wait times before booking flights

  • Consult an immigration attorney before travelling

  • Be prepared for lengthy administrative reviews if a visa renewal is required