The United States Consulate General in Mumbai and the US Embassy in India recently issued a significant warning to B1/B2 visitor visa holders, primarily aimed at an Indian audience. The advisory, published on Thursday, January 8, 2026, stresses the critical importance of understanding and adhering to the specific rules governing these non-immigrant visas. The core message is that engaging in unauthorized employment or overstaying the permitted duration while in the United States can lead to severe repercussions, including deportation and a permanent ban from future travel to the country. These warnings were circulated through various platforms, including posts on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter), often accompanied by an animated video series titled "Visa Guide" designed to clearly illustrate the allowed and prohibited activities for B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visa holders. For instance, B1 visas permit activities such as consulting with business associates, attending conferences, and negotiating contracts, while B2 visas are for tourism, visiting relatives, or seeking medical treatment. Crucially, neither visa type permits employment or paid professional performances. This advisory underscores that a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and visa applicants are assessed on their intent to follow the rules even during the interview stage. This latest warning follows similar advisories issued by the US Embassy concerning student (F-1) and work (H-1B, H-4) visa holders, indicating a broader emphasis on strict compliance with US immigration laws. The implications are particularly relevant for Indian citizens, who constitute a large number of US visa applicants, highlighting the need for thorough awareness before and during their travel to the United States.