Three Indian nationals holding H-1B visas faced a shocking situation upon their return to the United States from India. They were denied entry at Abu Dhabi International Airport, leading to the cancellation of their visas. This incident has raised alarms among many visa holders. The affected individuals had reportedly stayed in India for over the permitted 60 days. One person was in India for 2 months and 27 days, while the others stayed for more than three months. Their extended stay was due to emergencies, for which they provided letters from their employers and documented reasons. However, despite their efforts, U.S. immigration officers decided to cancel their visas. A social media user shared the experience of one of the affected individuals who was stopped during a preclearance check at Abu Dhabi Airport. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers reviewed their documents but still denied them entry under rule 22 CFR 41.122(h)(3). This rule allows for visa cancellation at the port of entry. The situation highlights the strict enforcement of U.S. immigration laws, particularly regarding H-1B visas. These visas allow American employers to temporarily employ foreign professionals in specialized fields. Generally, H-1B holders can remain outside the U.S. for a maximum of 60 consecutive days. If they stay longer without proper documentation or approval, they risk losing their visa status. This was exactly what happened to the three individuals in question. They had prepared for their return, believing they had valid reasons for their extended stays. However, their visas were stamped as cancelled, forcing them to return to India. This has sparked a significant discussion among H-1B visa holders on social media, especially in online forums. Many expressed sympathy for the workers, while others pointed out the need for compliance with immigration rules. Some comments suggested that the strictness of U.S. immigration policy leaves little room for leniency, even in emergencies. Critics argued that while the officers acted lawfully, they failed to consider the extenuating circumstances of the travelers. The incident serves as a reminder for all H-1B visa holders to be cautious about their time spent outside the U.S. Traveling through ports with preclearance facilities, such as Abu Dhabi, may pose additional challenges. Users in online discussions advised others to be aware of the risks associated with long stays outside the U.S. They emphasized that understanding visa regulations is crucial to avoid such situations. This incident illustrates the complexities and strict regulations surrounding H-1B visas. It highlights the importance of adhering to immigration laws to prevent severe consequences. After this incident, many are calling for clearer communication and guidelines regarding re-entry policies for H-1B visa holders. The voices of the affected individuals have raised awareness about the challenges faced by those who travel on work visas. It showcases the need for understanding the regulations governing visa status and compliance. The incident has generated significant discussion in the community, and many hope for more lenient policies in the future. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the experiences of these three individuals serve as a cautionary tale for visa holders everywhere.
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