India has formally conveyed its concerns to Washington following the abrupt cancellation of thousands of pre-scheduled H-1B visa interviews across US consulates in India. The move has left hundreds of Indian professionals stranded and many families separated during the holiday season. Confirming the development, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has “flagged and is actively engaging” with US authorities to address disruptions caused by the cancellations. The MEA said it is working closely with stakeholders to help affected applicants and ensure that such issues are resolved at the earliest.

US consular offices in major Indian cities — including New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai — reportedly canceled interview appointments scheduled from mid-December, with many now rescheduled for mid-2026. According to immigration experts, the changes come amid new vetting procedures requiring additional social media and background checks.

The result has been widespread disruption. Many Indian tech workers visiting home for the holidays found themselves unable to return to their jobs in the US after their visa renewal slots were suddenly canceled. Families have been split across continents, with H-4 dependent spouses and children stranded in India while primary visa holders remain in the US.

The Indian government has taken up the issue through diplomatic channels, urging Washington to prioritize stranded applicants and explore temporary solutions — such as waiver programs or emergency slots. The MEA emphasized the "serious human and professional impact" of the cancellations and highlighted the need for greater predictability in visa services. Industry leaders, particularly from the IT sector, have echoed India’s call. They warn that disruptions in H-1B processing could affect ongoing US-based projects and impact business continuity, given that Indians account for roughly 70% of H-1B visa holders globally.

The visa turmoil comes amid broader changes to the US immigration system. The Biden administration, continuing some policy shifts initiated earlier, has introduced new security checks and announced plans for a wage-based H-1B selection process starting next year. Experts say these changes aim to prioritize higher-paid candidates but also risk leaving skilled professionals in limbo.

As both governments continue consultations, the MEA has advised Indian nationals awaiting visa appointments to stay in close touch with the US embassy’s consular updates. Officials said affected individuals can reach out to Indian embassies for support and case-specific guidance. For now, stranded professionals and their families are hoping that the diplomatic engagement leads to quicker relief — restoring stability to one of the most crucial people-to-people links between India and the US.