Let’s talk about something that’s been bothering a lot of Indian H1B visa holders in the U.S.: the never-ending hassle of visa stamping.
If you’re in the U.S. on an H1B visa, you know how essential stamping is to keep your visa status valid. For many Indians, though, getting that stamp in the U.S. just isn’t an option.
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The next thought? Heading to a “third country” like Canada or Mexico to try your luck. But how does that really work?
Here’s the thing – U.S. consulates in Canada and Mexico sometimes accept third-country nationals (TCNs) for visa stamping. In other words, you could apply for your H1B stamp at a consulate in a neighboring country instead of flying back to India.
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Sounds ideal, right? But here’s the catch: consulates in these countries often prioritize locals, so securing an appointment isn’t always straightforward. Demand is high, and appointment slots can be few and far between.
If you’re going for your first time H1B stamping, brace yourself. TCN applications can be tricky because consular officers may scrutinize these cases more closely, especially when applicants come from a country other than the one where they’re stamping.
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If your application is denied (it happens!), you might need to head back to India to sort it out. This could cause delays and potentially affect your job status in the U.S. Not to mention, if you can’t get back into the U.S. right away, the waiting time and expenses can add up fast.
Thanks to the pandemic, getting an appointment is harder than ever. There’s a massive backlog at U.S. consulates globally, including in Canada and Mexico. Some applicants have faced constant rescheduling and cancellations, even as the pandemic eases.
This makes the option of third-country stamping a bit of a gamble. It might work out smoothly, but it could also be a costly, time-consuming detour.
If you’re considering this route, make sure to consult with an immigration lawyer who’s up to date on the latest developments. Many Indians have gone through it successfully, but there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach here.
Be prepared for the possibility of heading back to India if things don’t go as planned.
For some, it’s a good option. For others, the uncertainties and the cost could be too much. Until the process becomes more predictable, visa stamping will continue to be one of the biggest challenges for Indian H1B holders trying to hold on to their American dream.
