US consulates in India have pushed H-1B visa stamping interview appointments to 2027. This delay has created major problems for Indian professionals working in the United States. Consular offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata currently do not have regular interview slots.
The issue started in December 2025. Officials first moved December appointments to March 2026. Later, they shifted them again to October 2026. Now, they have pushed many of those interviews further to 2027.
Backlog Grows Amid H-1B Rule Changes
The backlog has increased as the US government changes the H-1B visa system. On December 29, 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced new rules for the 2027 financial year. However, authorities kept the yearly visa cap the same at 85,000. This number still includes 20,000 visas reserved for applicants with US postgraduate degrees.
New Policies Slow Down Processing
Policy changes have added to the delays. From December 15, 2025, the US made social media screening mandatory for employment-based visa applicants. These extra checks take more time, so consulates now conduct fewer interviews each day.
The US State Department has also ended the option for Indian nationals to get visa stamping in third countries. Because of this decision, all applicants must now depend only on Indian consulates, which has increased pressure and waiting times.
Lottery System Now Based on Salary and Experience
Under the new selection process, USCIS gives more weight to salary levels and work experience. Employers who file petitions for Level IV workers receive four entries in the lottery. Level III workers get three entries, Level II workers get two, and Level I workers receive one entry. Officials will open the lottery in early March.
US Employers Feel the Impact
American companies already face difficulties because of these delays. Industries such as technology, healthcare, and education rely heavily on H-1B professionals for skilled jobs. Long employee absences have delayed projects, disturbed teamwork, and increased costs.
Companies Adjust Hiring Strategies
To manage the situation, some firms now allow limited remote work or temporarily shift job duties. Others, including Indian IT companies with US operations, have increased hiring of American citizens to lower their risk.
Experts Warn of Talent Loss Due To Delay
Immigration experts warn that if these delays continue, the US may struggle to attract global talent. Meanwhile, other countries are making their skilled-worker visa systems faster and simpler, which could draw professionals away from the US.
