US Expands Online Checks for H-1B, H-4 Visa Applicants

• The US has expanded online presence and social media checks to H-1B specialty occupation workers and their H-4 dependents.
• These expanded checks, which previously applied to F, M, and J visa categories, will begin on December 15.
• The move is part of the Trump administration's efforts to enhance vetting and national security.
• Applicants are advised to adjust their social media privacy settings to 'public' to facilitate the review.
• Some visa appointments have been rescheduled, and applicants are informed directly of changes.

Why It Matters: New US visa rules add uncertainty for H-1B/H-4 applicants via social media checks.