H-1B and H-4 Visa Holders: Appointment Cancellations and Delays
The U.S. Department of State has begun reviewing the online presence of H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. As a result, several U.S. consulates in India have started cancelling and rescheduling visa appointments scheduled for December 15 or later. Some applicants have received new appointments as late as March 2026. Similar changes may occur at consulates worldwide.
Why This Is Happening
Under the new review policy, consulates expect to interview fewer H-1B and H-4 applicants each day. They are cancelling and rescheduling appointments to align with reduced processing capacity.
What Applicants Should Do
- If you have an H-1B or H-4 appointment on or after December 15, 2025, check your CEAC account (Visa Application Home → Appointment Confirmation) to ensure your appointment is still active.
- Monitor your email inbox and spam/junk folders for any cancellation notices or updates.
- Contact your consulate directly for the most current information on procedures and appointment availability.
Travel Considerations
Verify your appointment status before making any international travel plans. Please consider the possibility of delays that may affect your return to the United States. Discuss travel plans with your supervisor/manager and ensure you have a backup plan.
Possible Impact on Other Visa Categories
The Department of State may extend enhanced vetting to other non-immigrant visa categories, though no additional changes have been announced. The Office of International Affairs will continue to monitor the situation and update this page as new information becomes available.
For questions, please contact us at InternationalAffairsOIA@utsouthwestern.edu