The U.S. Department of State (“DOS” or “Department”) has announced a significant expansion of its screening and vetting procedures for H-1B specialty occupation workers and their H-4 dependent family members. This major expansion of digital-vetting will have a significant impact on foreign workers, especially Indian professionals and Indian workers, as tech companies and technology companies in the U.S. heavily rely on these visa categories.
Beginning December 15, 2025, all H-1B and H-4 visa applicants will be required to undergo an online presence review, a vetting step previously applied only to student and exchange visitor categories (F, M, and J visas).
This policy shift is rooted in measures introduced by the Trump administration, which implemented expanded vetting policies based on an internal state department memo and new guidance requiring greater scrutiny of applicants’ online activity. At HSD Immigration Lawyer, we want our clients, employers, and international workers to clearly understand how these changes may affect upcoming visa applications and interviews, as the government’s stated rationale is to protect national interests.
What Is Changing?
Starting December 15, the DOS will:
- Expand mandatory online presence reviews to include all H-1B and H-4 applicants.
- Continue applying this requirement to F-1, M-1, and J-1 students and exchange visitors.
- Require applicants in these visa categories to adjust privacy settings on all social media accounts to “public” to facilitate government vetting.
This means applicants must make their social media profiles public and set their social media accounts public across all social media platforms to comply with the new requirements. Consular officers will review social media profiles as part of the online presence review. This includes information posted on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and others to confirm identity, background, and eligibility.
Why Is This Happening?
In its announcement, the Department emphasized that it uses all available information during the visa screening process to:
- Identify applicants who may be inadmissible,
- Detect national security or public safety risks, and
- Ensure visa seekers intend to comply with U.S. immigration laws.
The DOS reiterated that every visa adjudication is a national security decision, and that protecting the United States requires vigilant screening during the visa issuance process.
Impact on H-1B Employees and Their Families
With the addition of H-1B and H-4 applicants to this expanded vetting program, individuals should expect:
- Closer scrutiny of their online activity, including online vetting of their employment histories and involvement in content moderation, fact checking, or such activities.
- Potential delays in processing if information requires additional review.
- Increased importance of consistent, accurate, and professional online presence.
Applicants must ensure that their social media content does not contradict information provided in their visa forms, employment documents, or immigration filings.
What Applicants Should Do Now
To prepare for the December 15 implementation date, applicants should be aware that these changes impact employers who hire foreign workers, especially highly skilled workers under the H-1B program. Navigating the complex requirements can be challenging, so applicants can seek assistance from immigration services to help with the screening and vetting process.
Update social media privacy settings to “public”
This is now an express requirement for individuals applying for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visas.
Review your online presence
Check posts, comments, usernames, and public interactions. Remove content that may appear misleading, inconsistent, or inappropriate.
Ensure all personal and employment information matches visa application materials
Discrepancies—intentional or accidental—could prompt additional scrutiny or delays.
Consult with your Immigration Attorney before your visa interview
Proper preparation can help applicants anticipate issues and present a consistent, credible case.
“A U.S. Visa Is a Privilege, Not a Right”
The DOS emphasized that visa issuance is discretionary, noting that applicants must:
- Demonstrate eligibility for the visa sought, and
- Show intent to engage only in activities permitted under the visa classification.
This includes clear evidence of specialty occupation work for H-1B applicants and compliance with dependent status rules for H-4 applicants.
How HSD Immigration Lawyer Can Help
Our firm will continue monitoring updates to visa screening policies and advising clients on best practices for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visa applications. We assist with:
- Consular process planning and preparation
- Social media compliance guidance
- Visa interview readiness
- Responding to additional consular inquiries or delays
If you have any questions about this update, please contact our Raleigh, NC office for guidance. At HSD Immigration Lawyer, we help individuals, families, and employers navigate complex U.S. immigration challenges with clarity and confidence. Our firm continuously monitors changes like this to ensure our clients stay compliant and informed.