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    US Expands Online Presence Screening for H-1B and H-4 Visa Applicants

    3 weeks ago

    The United States has expanded its visa screening process to include comprehensive reviews of social media activity and online presence for all H-1B specialty occupation workers and their H-4 dependents, the Department of State announced on Monday. The move applies globally to applicants of all nationalities and is part of standard visa vetting procedures.

    The US Embassy in India said the expanded checks are aimed at addressing misuse of the H-1B programme, while continuing to allow companies to hire highly skilled foreign professionals. US embassies and consulates will continue to accept and process applications, but applicants have been advised to apply early and be prepared for longer processing times.

    The announcement follows reports that several visa applicants in India received emails informing them that their previously scheduled appointments had been rescheduled, in some cases by several months. US authorities confirmed that the delays are linked to the new vetting policy, which includes screening an applicant’s digital footprint for potential national security concerns.

    The expanded screening comes amid heightened scrutiny of non-immigrant visas under the Trump administration, with categories such as H-1B, H-4, F-1 and J-1 facing stricter checks. Many visa holders who travelled to their home countries for renewal have been left stranded after consular interviews were postponed for additional background verification.

    Hundreds of Indian H-1B visa holders who returned to India in December to renew their work permits have reportedly been affected by the sudden cancellations. Officials said the enhanced “online presence reviews” are intended to identify applicants who may pose security risks to the United States.

    Indians account for more than 70% of H-1B visas issued annually. While the programme has long been a key pathway for skilled professionals to work in the US, it has faced increasing criticism from President Donald Trump and his allies as part of a broader shift toward tighter immigration policies.

     
     
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