US President Donald Trump, in a recent move to curb immigration and secure jobs for Americans while reducing the number of foreign workers in key sectors, imposed a $100,000 fee on employers hiring H-1B visa holders. The decision sparked strong reactions online, with many calling it a major setback for those chasing the American dream.
Several Indian professionals have taken to social media to share their visa experiences. One such Reddit post, from a user who recently attended an interview at the US Consulate in Chennai, has gone viral for surprisingly friendly interaction and easy visa approval process.
H-1B applicant shares smooth interview process
In the Reddit post, the applicant shared that the entire interview lasted less than a minute and even detailed the exact conversation with the visa officer. “Good morning, how are you?” the applicant said. The visa officer replied, “Good morning. Your passport?” After that, the officer asked where the applicant worked, how long they had been with the company, and how the experience was so far. The applicant replied that they had been working for three months at a FAANG company and were enjoying their work. “Just started working, it’s going well, and I’m really enjoying it. The work is interesting,” the applicant said.
The officer went on to ask about the applicant’s role and work location, to which the applicant replied that they were employed as a software professional. Next was the fingerprinting process, which happened smoothly and the officer even joked about the minor error. The officer then concluded the interview with the words, “Visa approved!” The entire process took less than a minute. The applicant also observed that one or two individuals ahead in line, who were applying for B1/B2 visas, had their applications rejected.
Later, the applicant added that their visa status changed to “Approved” on the 16th and “Issued” on the 17th. They were waiting for the passport pickup message.
Surprised by the experience, Reddit users in the thread asked several follow-up questions. When asked if it was their first time stamping, the applicant said it was their first time moving from F1 to H-1B. Another user asked if their visa was selected in the 2025 lottery (FY 2026). The applicant said, “No, my I-797B was approved in 2022, and I moved to H1 from F1 in 2024.” When asked what questions were asked to B1/B2 applicants, the user said the officer asked: “Where are you travelling to? What is the purpose? What do you do? Do you know anyone in the U.S.? What does your business do? Did you travel to any other countries?” When asked how long the process took, the user replied, “Entered at 7:30, out by 8:30.”
The H-1B program allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialised occupations. A speciality occupation usually requires highly specialised knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). The program is designed to help employers fill roles they cannot staff with qualified US workers. On September 19, 2025, a Presidential Proclamation restricted the issuance of H-1B visas unless petitions include a $100,000 fee. This applies only to petitions filed with USCIS after September 21, 2025.
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