Post by : Meena Ariff

Effective December 15, the United States has ramped up the assessment for all H-1B and H-4 visa applicants by broadening the review of social media and online footprints across the globe. This policy is applicable to applicants of all nationalities and has become a compulsory part of the visa evaluation process.

The US Embassy in India has released an advisory suggesting applicants apply well in advance, as the expanded reviews are expected to cause significant delays. Numerous Indian applicants for H-1B visas, who were initially slated for interviews in December, have seen their appointments pushed back by several months, with some rescheduled as late as March or May 2026, raising concerns among professionals keen to resume their careers in the US.

This initiative aligns with a larger US government effort to deter misuse of the H-1B visa program, heavily utilized by American tech firms to hire foreign talent. A large proportion of these visa holders are Indian professionals, including IT and healthcare experts. The upgraded scrutiny aims to safeguard the integrity of the program while still enabling companies to recruit the best talent globally.

Many applicants currently in India, who returned for visa renewals, find themselves without valid visas, facing unpredictability regarding their return to the United States. The embassy has continually stressed that a US visa is a privilege requiring adherence to US laws. The social media checks are now instrumental in confirming applicants’ identities and qualifications.

The enhanced vetting process isn't limited to H-1B and H-4 visas; it also impacts student and exchange visitor categories such as F, M, and J visas. Indian officials have indicated these modifications reflect an increased US governmental focus on national security in the context of visa adjudication.

Applicants should brace themselves for extended processing times and possible delays attributable to these new requirements. The US Embassy is continuing to process applications while advising on prospective delays, encouraging early submission to mitigate any disruptions.

This noteworthy policy adjustment highlights the US government's determination to protect its immigration framework while addressing the needs of employers and skilled workers globally.

#Visa #World News #US News