New Layer Added to Visa Vetting
The United States has begun implementing enhanced screening measures for H-1B work visa applicants and their H-4 dependents, bringing social media activity under closer scrutiny. The move signals a tougher approach to visa vetting, with officials emphasising national security as a core priority in immigration decisions.
Public Profiles Now Under Review
As part of the updated process, applicants are required to keep their social media accounts publicly accessible during visa adjudication. Consular officers may review online posts, interactions, and digital behaviour to identify potential security, legal, or compliance concerns. Authorities stress that the review is precautionary and forms only one part of a broader background check.
Visa Appointments See Delays
The expanded screening has led to temporary disruptions at US consulates, with several H-1B and H-4 visa appointments postponed or rescheduled. Officials are recalibrating workloads to accommodate the additional vetting steps, which has caused uncertainty for applicants awaiting interviews or renewals.
Prudential Revocations Raise Questions
In some cases, the State Department has issued “prudential revocations” to existing visa holders. These revocations are not punitive and do not automatically cancel legal status within the US. Instead, they allow authorities to reassess cases during the next visa interview, often without citing specific violations.
What Applicants Should Know
US officials reiterate that every visa decision is a national security determination. Immigration experts advise applicants to ensure consistency in documentation and maintain responsible online conduct, as digital footprints now play a more visible role in visa outcomes.
