The US Embassy in India advised travellers to remain alert against fraudulent messages and agents offering guaranteed visas or quick approvals, amid ongoing delays in visa processing.
The United States
has announced a significant expansion of visa screening procedures for H-1B and H-4 applicants, which has led to delays in visa processing. The embassy described the enhanced screening measures as part of a broader effort to ensure the integrity of the H-1B visa programme.
“Ever come across messages or agents promising guaranteed visas or faster approvals? Visa scams and fraud are more common than you think, and they can cost you time, money, and your travel plans,” the US embassy said in a video message, cautioning people against visa fraud.
In the video, visa officers reiterated that the only places to get a legitimate visa to the US were from the American embassy or consulate. “If anyone says they can get you a visa outside this process, they are trying to scam you,” said Karthik, a visa assistant.
Ever come across messages or agents promising guaranteed visas or faster approvals? Visa scams and fraud are more common than you think, and they can cost you time, money, and your travel plans. This #VisaFriday, we’re highlighting steps you can take to identify scams, avoid… pic.twitter.com/4a55mbOihR
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) December 26, 2025
Another US officer, Benjamin, said no citizens should avail the offers of a visa agent. “Not a visa agent, not a fixer or a travel agent can promise you a US visa. Some agents may promise success, but they often provide false or misleading information. They also charge expensive fees.”
The agents also said there was a lot of misleading information about the visa application process, and the only credible sources were the website of the US State Department or the US embassy.
The advisory comes amid widespread disruption to visa processing schedules in India, where thousands of pre-scheduled H-1B visa interviews slated from December 15 onwards have been abruptly postponed by several months.
According to affected applicants, interviews originally fixed for mid-December have been deferred to March, while some appointments scheduled later in the month have been pushed to as late as May. The mass rescheduling of interviews has caused hardship for many applicants, particularly those who had already travelled to India for their visa appointments.
Indian professionals form one of the largest groups of H-1B visa holders, especially in sectors such as information technology and healthcare. The latest development coincides with a broader crackdown by the US authorities on alleged misuse of the H-1B programme and illegal immigration.
