US H-1B Visa Applicants Face New Social Media Screening: A Blow to Indian Professionals

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The United States has begun enforcing a new rule that requires all H-1B visa applicants and their dependent H-4 visa applicants to make their social media accounts public, starting December 15. The move aims to identify applicants who pose a threat to US national security or public safety, as part of the Trump administration's ongoing crackdown on immigration. The H-1B visa, which allows American companies to hire foreign talent, is predominantly used by Indian nationals, who constitute over 70% of all H-1B visa holders. This new requirement is expected to significantly impact Indian professionals, many of whom are already facing difficulties due to rescheduled visa interviews and prudential visa revocations. According to immigration attorneys, H-1B workers may lose their jobs due to the prolonged delay in visa processing, which can take up to five months. Employers are being asked to allow workers to work from India or take a leave of absence, which is becoming increasingly challenging in today's economic environment. The US state department has instructed applicants to change their social media account settings to public, allowing officials to review their online presence. While the exact criteria for screening and vetting are unclear, officials are tasked with identifying individuals who advocate for or support designated foreign terrorists, perpetrate anti-Semitic harassment, or pose a threat to national security. This latest move has sparked backlash on social media, with users expressing concerns over their digital rights. As the social media screening process begins, it remains to be seen how it will impact Indian professionals and the H-1B visa program as a whole.