A social media post claiming that an H-1B visa was revoked over an unpaid $600 traffic fine has gone viral across NRI channels, triggering concern among Indian professionals living in the United States.
According to the post, the visa holder had not committed any major criminal offence. However, he allegedly failed to pay a court-imposed traffic fine before the deadline.
The man was reportedly aware of the traffic violation and had even attended the first court hearing, where a judge ordered him to pay $600.
He later moved to a new apartment, missed the payment notice and failed to clear the fine on time. The case was subsequently shared with the Department of Homeland Security, and his visa was reportedly revoked.
“He deeply regrets not paying the $600 fine on time,” the post said.
The incident has prompted warnings to H-1B visa holders not to dismiss traffic tickets, court notices or fines as minor matters.
Several social media users argued that the individual was responsible for the situation because he had appeared in court and knew about the penalty.
Some also pointed out that a $600 fine was substantial and may have involved a serious violation or multiple offences.
The US Department of State has the authority to issue what is known as a prudential visa revocation in certain cases. Such action is commonly associated with offences such as driving under the influence.
If a person fails to pay a fine and a court issues a bench warrant, the warrant may be entered into national law-enforcement databases and later come to the attention of immigration authorities.
However, revocation of a visa stamp does not necessarily mean the immediate cancellation of a person’s H-1B status inside the United States.
A visa stamp is mainly used for entry into the country. An H-1B worker whose visa stamp has been revoked may still remain in lawful status while in the US, provided the person continues to comply with the conditions of the approved H-1B petition and works for the sponsoring employer.
The problem may arise when the person travels outside the United States. Once abroad, the individual may be unable to return using the revoked visa and could be required to attend a fresh consular interview after resolving the legal issue.
Immigration experts also advise H-1B visa holders to update their residential address with USCIS whenever they move. They should also update their address with courts, state motor vehicle departments and other relevant agencies to avoid missing important legal notices.
