The US Embassy in India has issued a strong warning to people applying for American visas. It has cautioned them against fake messages, fraud agents, and scammers who promise guaranteed visas or faster approvals. This alert comes at a time when many visa applicants are already facing long delays, making them easy targets for fraud.
The embassy shared its concern in a post on X, saying, “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,”
It asked people to remain alert and to follow only official rules and procedures so they do not lose money or miss their travel plans.
Only One Legal Way to Apply for a US Visa
US officials clearly stated that visas can only be obtained through the US Embassy or Consulate. There is no shortcut or special method.
The embassy explained: “The only way to book an appointment is through our online scheduling portal which is www.ustraveldocs.com. ‘If anyone says they can get you a visa outside this process, they are trying to scam you’,”
This means anyone who claims they can arrange a visa faster or without using the official system is trying to cheat applicants.
No Agent Can Guarantee a US Visa
The embassy also addressed a common question about whether people should use visa agents or travel agencies. It made it clear that no agent, fixer, or consultant has the power to guarantee a US visa.
Many agents make big promises and charge large fees, but they often give wrong information. The embassy said applicants only need to pay the fees listed in the official visa process. “Remember, the only fees you need to pay for a US visa are the ones outlined in our application,”
Also Read: US Visa Crackdown: Online Presence Checks Expanded for H-1B, H-4 Applicants
Use Only Official Websites for Information
To avoid being misled, applicants were told to depend only on official US government websites for correct details. “For accurate information, applicants are encouraged to visit the official US Department of State website travel.state.gov or the US Embassy India visa website, in.usembassy.gov/visas,”
These are the only trusted sources for visa rules, fees, and appointment booking.
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
Why Visa Scams Are Rising Now
The warning comes when many Indian H-1B visa holders and applicants are struggling with long processing delays. Interviews that were planned for December 15 and later have been pushed back by several months, leaving many people worried and frustrated.
This situation has created an opportunity for scammers who offer quick fixes for a price.
Major Changes in the US H-1B Visa System
The Trump administration has also made big changes to the H-1B visa system. The old lottery system has been scrapped and replaced with a weighted selection system.
This new system gives priority to applicants who have:
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Higher salaries
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Advanced skills
While this helps highly skilled professionals, it makes it harder for entry-level workers, including many Indians, to get selected.
The Department of Homeland Security said this rule will begin on February 27, 2026. It will apply to the distribution of around 85,000 H-1B visas every year starting from the 2027 registration cycle.
