US Immigration Crackdown: Thirty Two% of H-1B Visa Holders Now Change Travel Plans, Survey Reveals

Published on December 30, 2025

A recent survey reveals that nearly one-third of H-1B visa holders in the United States have altered their travel plans, refraining from both domestic and international trips in an effort to avoid attention from immigration authorities. This behavior, highlighted in the 2025 Survey of Immigrants, conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) in partnership with The New York Times, comes amid heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.

Survey Highlights Concerns Over Immigration Enforcement

The survey, which examined the travel behaviors of immigrants during the 2025 holiday season, found that 32% of H-1B visa holders opted to stay home rather than travel. This figure is part of a broader trend of caution among immigrants, with 27% of all immigrants in the U.S. – including naturalized citizens, legal residents, and undocumented migrants – reporting they altered their travel plans to avoid scrutiny from immigration authorities.

The fear of potential immigration enforcement during domestic and international travel is most pronounced among undocumented immigrants, with 63% of them reporting that they refrained from both types of travel. Even naturalized citizens, who hold full legal status, expressed concerns, with 15% saying they changed their travel plans due to fears of increased checks.

Concerns Over Data-Sharing and Increased Scrutiny

A significant factor behind this behavior is the growing concern about data-sharing between federal agencies. In particular, the survey highlights the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) decision to share domestic flight data, including passenger lists, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This move, which started under the Trump administration, has intensified fears among immigrants, as it increases the likelihood of individuals being identified by ICE during routine travel.

Historically, immigration authorities largely stayed away from using flight data to track individuals. However, under the current administration, there has been an effort to increase data-sharing across federal agencies, which has included more coordinated surveillance efforts aimed at identifying and detaining individuals who may be living in the U.S. unlawfully.

Impact on H-1B Visa Holders and Other Immigrant Groups

H-1B visa holders, who make up a significant portion of skilled immigrant workers in the U.S., have been particularly affected by these developments. Changes in visa processing policies, such as the end of remote and third-country renewals for H-1B and H-4 visas, have added to the uncertainty. In addition, a $100,000 fee for new H-1B applications, introduced by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, has raised concerns about further barriers to entry for international professionals.

These changes have placed immense pressure on U.S. consulates and embassies, particularly in countries with large immigrant populations, like India. The survey found that many consular interviews were delayed for months, with some scheduled for December 2025 being rescheduled to as late as October 2026 or even 2027. As a result, many H-1B visa holders found themselves stranded in their home countries, unable to return to their jobs and families in the U.S. due to delays in visa processing.

Holiday Travel and Immigration Fears

The timing of these findings is significant, as the U.S. holiday season – from Halloween to New Year’s Eve – is typically one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year see heavy air and road traffic across the country. However, this year, the survey shows that many immigrants, particularly those on temporary work visas, chose to stay home rather than risk drawing attention from immigration officials.

The holiday season, usually marked by family reunions and festive travel, has been disrupted for many immigrants who otherwise would have traveled within the U.S. or abroad. As the administration continues its crackdown on immigration, these travel decisions reflect growing concerns about the impact of increased scrutiny on the immigrant community.

A Continued Desire to Live in the U.S. Despite Fears

Despite the challenges posed by the heightened immigration enforcement, the survey found that the majority of immigrants in the U.S. – including those who altered their travel plans – would still choose to immigrate to the United States if given the opportunity to start over. The desire to live in the U.S. persists, with many immigrants viewing the country as a land of opportunity despite the risks associated with immigration policies and enforcement actions.

While fears over immigration enforcement continue to influence travel and daily life, the survey results suggest that immigrants remain committed to their goals of living, working, and contributing to American society. The data highlights the tension between the opportunities the U.S. offers and the challenges that come with living under increasingly strict immigration policies.

For More Information

For further details about U.S. immigration policies, including travel restrictions and changes to visa processing, individuals can refer to official government websites such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These agencies provide the most up-to-date information on visa applications, travel regulations, and enforcement practices.