U.S. Expands Social Media Vetting for H-1B and H-4 Visa Applicants

[wisdom01]

U.S.Department of State implemented a new policy requiring mandatory online presence reviews for all applicants of H-1B and H-4 visas worldwide. Consular officers are now directed to request and scrutinize social media handles, email addresses, and phone numbers from all applicants in these categories as part of a strengthened vetting process aimed at identifying potential fraud or national security concerns.

While similar screening has existed for applicants from specific countries, this global expansion marks a significant policy shift.