Immigration attorneys in the US are cautioning Indian nationals, including H-1B visa holders, international students, and green card holders, against traveling abroad. Delays in visa stamping, heightened security checks, and possible detention are major concerns. Attorneys recommend contingency plans and suggest eligible green card holders apply for US citizenship.
Travel Warnings for Indian Nationals Immigration experts are advising Indian nationals in the US to reconsider international travel due to increased scrutiny and processing delays. While India is not on any official travel ban list, changes in visa regulations have caused significant disruptions.
Kripa Upadhyay, a Seattle-based immigration attorney, highlighted the risks for H-1B and F-1 visa holders who may face visa stamping delays or be denied re-entry. Similarly, applicants now face stricter eligibility for interview waivers, with the dropbox option only available for visa renewals within 12 months.
Impact of Policy Changes The US Department of State has revised the interview waiver eligibility, limiting the dropbox facility. Visa holders whose previous visas expired over a year ago must schedule in-person interviews, leading to extended wait times. International students transitioning from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa face similar issues.
Snehal Batra, managing attorney at NPZ Law Group, noted the surge in administrative processing without clear justification, often resulting in months-long delays. She warned of intensified “extreme vetting” reminiscent of policies during the previous Trump administration.
Concerns for Green Card Holders Even green card holders are experiencing heightened scrutiny. Reports indicate that individuals are being subjected to secondary inspections or overnight detention upon returning to the US. Some face pressure to voluntarily surrender their green cards, particularly elderly Indians who frequently travel between India and the US.
Rajiv S. Khanna from Immigration.com advised having contingency plans and recommended that green card holders who meet eligibility criteria apply for US citizenship to avoid travel-related risks.
Steps to Mitigate Risks
- Avoid non-essential international travel.
- Consult immigration attorneys for personalized guidance.
- Prepare contingency plans in case of visa delays.
- Apply for US citizenship if eligible to minimize travel disruptions.
Conclusion With increasing uncertainties surrounding visa processing and heightened scrutiny, Indian nationals in the US are encouraged to proceed cautiously with travel plans. Taking proactive measures and exploring citizenship options can provide greater security and stability.
