The U.S. government announced that starting December 15, 2025, consular officers will conduct an expanded “online presence review” for all H-1B specialty worker visa applicants and their H-4 dependents, adding a new layer of scrutiny that may further delay processing.

BulletsIn

•  U.S. to enforce expanded social media vetting for H-1B and H-4 applicants from Dec 15.
•  Policy covers both new applicants and renewals.
•  Consular officers will review applicants’ online activity, including social media presence.
•  Aim: ensure no applicant poses security or safety risks to the U.S.
•  Applicants must credibly show eligibility and intent to follow visa terms.
•  New screening expected to increase waiting time for visa processing.
•  Comes amid broader tightening of U.S. visa screening policies since 2024–25.
•  Follows earlier measures targeting roles linked to misinformation, content moderation etc.
•  Adds uncertainty for Indian IT professionals, largest users of H-1B programme.
•  Embassy says each case will take “necessary time” for full security assessment.