U.S. Launches Social Media Screening for H-1B and H-4 Visa Applicants, One Post Could Jeopardize Your Job Dream

The U.S. government has announced a new initiative to scrutinize social media activity of H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, a move aimed at enhancing national and public security. Under this new directive, effective from December 15, all non-immigrant visa applicants in these categories will have their online presence reviewed before visa approval.

The U.S. Department of State emphasized that visas are a privilege, not a right, and each application is treated as a national security assessment. Previously, social media checks were largely limited to student and exchange visitor visas (F, M, J categories), but now H-1B visa holders and their dependents will also be evaluated for political affiliations, ideology, and any indications of intent to harm U.S. interests or engage in extremist or unlawful activities.

Applicants are advised to make their social media profiles public to facilitate the review process. The screening could potentially affect visa interviews, with some being rescheduled in countries including India, which has the largest pool of H-1B visa holders. The decision could impact thousands of Indian professionals working in U.S. technology companies, healthcare, and other sectors.

The Trump administration has described this step as a crucial measure to tighten visa procedures and ensure that entrants to the U.S. do not pose security threats. Applicants are warned that even a single controversial post could endanger their chances of obtaining a visa and realizing their career aspirations in the United States.