US Immigration Attorneys warn Indian H-1B, F-1 Visa, and Green Card holders about travel risks
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Even though India is not on the US’ proposed travel ban list, returning from abroad has become more challenging due to increased security checks and visa processing delays.
US immigration attorneys are advising H-1B visa holders, international students (F-1), and even green card holders to think twice before traveling overseas. Despite previous visa approvals, travelers may face unexpected administrative reviews that could significantly delay their return.
Tighter Scrutiny for Indian Travelers
The warning comes as the Trump administration moves to impose travel restrictions on 43 countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bhutan. While India isn’t on that list, Indian travelers are still experiencing stricter security checks, delays in visa stamping, and even detention at US airports.
Immigration lawyers caution that visa holders leaving the US for work trips or renewals may face prolonged administrative hurdles at US consulates abroad. Many applications get stuck in processing with no clear reason, leading to unpredictable wait times.
Visa Renewal Process Becomes More Difficult
A recent update from the US State Department has made visa renewal more complicated. Previously, individuals could renew a non-immigrant visa without an interview if it had expired within 48 months. Now, that window has been reduced to just 12 months. This means more people must attend in-person interviews at US consulates, adding to the backlog.
Who Will Be Affected?
The policy shift will primarily impact:
Those transitioning from an F-1 student visa to an H-1B work visa.
H-1B holders seeking extensions if their previous visa expired more than a year ago.
Previously, many of these applicants benefited from an interview waiver, but now they must go through in-person interviews, making the process longer and more complex.
Growing Anxiety Among Green Card Holders
Even green card holders are feeling uneasy about international travel. Immigration attorney LaToya McBean Pompy told CNN that many of her clients, who never feared traveling before, are now anxious about potential issues at the border.
Attorney David Leopold also warned that green card holders facing criminal charges or convictions could be at risk of detention or even deportation. He advises clients to assess their individual situations carefully before making travel plans.
Final Advice: Think Before You Travel
Given the uncertainty surrounding US immigration policies and the potential for new travel restrictions, attorneys strongly recommend visa holders reconsider any non-essential trips abroad. Delays, administrative holds, and visa backlogs could turn a short trip into an indefinite stay outside the US.
