New Delhi [India], December 10 (ANI): The United States has expanded its review of social media and online presence to cover all H-1B speciality occupation workers and their H-4 dependents, the US Embassy in India announced on Wednesday. The move comes after several applicants in India received emails notifying them that their visa appointments had been rescheduled.
A US Embassy spokesperson explained that the Department of State already conducts online presence checks for student and exchange visitor visa categories, including F, M, and J visas. Beginning December 15, this review will also include H-1B and H-4 applicants.
The expansion follows the Trump administration’s recent directive to make social media screening mandatory for all H-1B and H-4 applicants. The spokesperson said, “In every visa case, we will take the time necessary to ensure an applicant does not pose a risk to the safety and security of the United States and that he or she has credibly established eligibility for the visa sought, including engaging in activities consistent with the terms of admission.”
The embassy noted that appointment schedules may shift to match resource availability, and affected applicants are directly informed of any changes. A public advisory issued by Mission India on X cautioned applicants against attending their previously scheduled appointments, stating that doing so would result in denied admittance to the Embassy or Consulate.
Earlier this month, the State Department mandated social media screening for all H-1B applicants and their dependents, describing it as part of broader efforts to prevent misuse of foreign-worker visas. In September, the US also introduced a USD 100,000 annual fee on H-1B filings.
To facilitate the expanded vetting process, applicants for H-1B and H-4, as well as F, M, and J visas, are instructed to set all social media profiles to “public.” The Department emphasized that every visa adjudication is a national security decision and that all available information is used to identify applicants inadmissible to the United States, including those who may pose a threat to national security or public safety.
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