Following recent security measures in the US, President Donald Trump’s administration has tightened visa rules, resulting in the cancellation of more than 85,000 visas. Strict H-1B rules, lengthy processing and social media scrutiny have created challenges for Indian applicants.
H-1B visa rules: After the recent terrorist attacks in America, President Donald Trump’s administration has made visa rules more stringent than before. Giving priority to security, more than 85,000 visas have been canceled so far. These major measures are directly impacting Indian visa applicants, especially those professionals who want to work in America. Under the new policy, the visa review process has become lengthy, complex and stringent, causing delays and confusion for many applications.
85,000 visas cancelled, students most affected
The American US State Department has said that a total of 85,000 visas have been canceled since January. This includes more than 8,000 student visas, more than double the number of last year. These figures show that the Trump administration is taking very strict action on immigration enforcement and border security. According to reports, crimes like drink driving, theft and assault have been the main reasons for this cancellation. Additionally, many visas have also been canceled due to visa expiration, suspicions related to terrorism, and other serious reasons.
Strict measures in the name of national security
The State Department post featured an image of President Trump with the message “Make America Safe Again,” indicating that security is at the center of the action. The administration has made it clear that no relief of any kind will be given on immigration. Recent measures have also included revoking the visas of people accused of celebrating the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
After the recent incident near the White House, these rules have been made more strict. During President Trump’s second term, oversight of both visa applications and visa holders has become more stringent than before.
Effect of new social media screening in India
The US Embassy in India has announced a new social media screening policy, due to which there has been increased concern among H-1B visa applicants. The advisory issued by the Embassy states that all visa applicants will have to make their social media profiles “Public” before December 15. If this is not done the visa may be refused. Additionally, the interviews of December and January have been shifted to March 2026 or later dates. The Embassy has said that applicants arriving at old interview slots will not be given admission.
Difficulties increase for Indians seeking H-1B visa
H-1B visas have long been the most important means for Indian tech professionals to get jobs in the US. Due to the new policy, Indian applicants will now have to be more careful than before. Social media verification has made the application process more challenging.
This can lead to longer engagement dates for job offerings, delays in company onboarding, and additional pressure on applicants’ preparation. This change is also worrying for students and researchers, because there has been a big increase in the number of student visa cancellations.
How to prepare for new rules
Visa applications in America are no longer based only on document verification, but digital footprints including social media activities are also being scrutinized in detail. Therefore, Indian advertisers should review their social media profiles, remove old controversial or negative content and keep their identity and information true, clear and public.
Additionally, it has become more important than ever to keep passports, job offer letters, education documents and other important documents updated. It is also important to regularly check the embassy website for interview dates and follow the advice of the new counsellor.
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