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4w ago

US Embassy Cancels 2,000 Fraudulent Visa Appointments in India

The embassy identified bot-made bookings, suspended associated accounts, and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy for fraud in visa scheduling.

According to the USICS, the H-1B classification has an annual numerical limit (cap) of 65,000 for new statuses/visas each fiscal year (with certain deductions and additions based on H-1B1 set-asides and usage).
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Indians are one of the most prominent demographics who enter the United States for all kinds of activities, be it work, tourism, or as students.
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Overview

  • The US Embassy in India canceled approximately 2,000 visa appointments made by bots, citing violations of scheduling policies.
  • Associated accounts involved in the fraudulent activities have had their scheduling privileges suspended immediately.
  • A complaint filed by the embassy with Delhi Police led to an FIR against over 30 visa and passport agents linked to fraudulent practices.
  • The US visa system continues to face challenges, including significant backlogs, retrogression in employment-based categories, and high rejection rates for student visas.
  • Travel agents using bots to block appointment slots have exacerbated difficulties for individual applicants, prompting stricter anti-fraud measures.