The U.S. Department of State has introduced new guidelines that will require H-1B and H-4 visa applicants to have their social media accounts reviewed as part of the visa application process. Applicants are being advised to make their social media accounts public to comply with these new regulations. This move is set to affect Indian applicants who, due to these changes, will be required to attend interviews again. A U.S. State Department spokesperson emphasized that a visa is a privilege, not a right, and all necessary information will be thoroughly screened to ensure national security and public safety.
In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the practice of sending back talented international students who have graduated from top American colleges, particularly those from countries like India and China. Trump urged U.S. companies to hire these skilled graduates and proposed that companies purchase “Gold Cards” for them, which would allow these students to stay in the U.S. and potentially gain citizenship within five years.
Meanwhile, the U.S. has begun delaying visa issuances to foreign workers and students, particularly those on H-1B and H-4 visas. Some visa holders have already received emails notifying them of a temporary cancellation of their visas. However, immigration lawyers have clarified that this does not mean a permanent visa rejection, and those affected can continue to reside in the U.S. until their visa expires. Despite this, re-entering the U.S. after leaving will be a challenge, as applicants may face long delays in obtaining new visas.
The changes are expected to have a significant impact on Indian nationals, as a large portion of H-1B and H-4 visa holders come from India. The temporary cancellation of visas has created uncertainty for foreign workers and students, many of whom may need to return home for important matters but could face difficulties in re-entering the U.S. Furthermore, the U.S. immigration authorities are now requesting details of the applicants’ social media activity from the last five years, a policy that will apply to both new applicants and those holding existing visas.