Visa Backlogs Leave H-1B Workers Stranded Abroad

Severe visa appointment delays are leaving H-1B and L-1 workers stuck outside the United States, especially in India where slots are largely unavailable through 2026. Many workers are stranded for months, missing work and family emergencies. Employers say stricter vetting, fewer interview waivers, and staffing shortages are driving the backlog, adding pressure alongside rising costs and policy changes.