Sudden H-1B Visa Revocation Leaves Worker Stranded Abroad

A U.S. H-1B visa holder found themselves stranded abroad this month after receiving an unexpected revocation notice just days before their planned return to the United States. The incident highlights growing uncertainties faced by skilled foreign workers amid tighter visa screening policies.

The individual, an Indian professional, was visiting India to attend to a family emergency. With a return flight scheduled for December 23, they received an email on December 15 from the U.S. Consulate in Kolkata stating that their visa had been revoked. The notice cited new information suggesting potential ineligibility, but no specific reason was provided. The professional, who has no criminal record or prior charges, was instructed not to travel and to apply for a new visa.

This case comes at a time when the U.S. has introduced stricter immigration measures. Applicants for various visa categories, including H-1B, are now required to submit social media handles for review, and profiles must remain public for security screening purposes. The U.S. Department of State has emphasized that these measures are designed to assess potential national security risks.

In addition, a one-time $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas, introduced under former President Trump, has added financial and procedural challenges for applicants. The H-1B program, which grants 85,000 visas annually with a large portion going to Indian professionals, now faces stricter scrutiny, making travel and application processes more unpredictable.

Experts recommend that visa holders exercise caution when traveling internationally. Consulting an immigration attorney and staying informed about policy changes is essential. The recent revocation underscores the complex and volatile environment for skilled workers seeking to enter or return to the United States.