US Expands Visa Vetting to All H-1B, H-4 Applicants Amid Security Concerns

The US Department of State has rolled out a comprehensive review of social media and online presence for all H-1B specialty occupation workers and their H-4 dependents as part of standard visa screening. This move, announced on Monday, is aimed at addressing potential national security risks and abuse of the H-1B program. According to the US Embassy in India, the review is being conducted globally for all applicants of all nationalities seeking H-1B and H-4 visas. The embassy stated that the US embassies and consulates will continue to accept and process these visa applications, but applicants can expect additional processing time. The move comes as part of the US government's heightened scrutiny of non-immigrant visa holders, particularly H-1B workers. This is the latest development in a series of changes implemented by the Trump administration, which has significantly affected visa categories such as H-1B, F-1, and J-1. Hundreds of Indian H-1B visa holders have been affected by the new policy, with many experiencing cancelled appointments and rescheduled dates. The US authorities have stated that the "online presence reviews" are necessary to screen applicants who may pose a national security risk to the United States. The H-1B program, once a cornerstone of US immigration policy, has been under intense scrutiny in recent years. Indians account for over 70% of H-1B visas, but the program has faced resistance from the Trump administration and its allies as part of a larger anti-immigrant policy shift.