The Department of State (DOS) expanded its online presence review and visa vetting procedures. Therefore, DOS screening and vetting requirements apply to more non-immigrant visa categories. The changes go into effect on March 30, 2026.
Background
The DOS increasingly incorporated reviews of a visa applicant’s online presence as part of push for broader national security measures. In 2025, the DOS implemented online vetting requirements for F, M, and J visas. Additionally, vetting requirements expanded to H-1B and H-4 applicants in early 2026.
Affected Applicants
Expansion of online visa screening includes:
- Domestic worker and personal employee categories:
- A-3, C-3 (domestic worker), and G-5 visa holders.
- Training and exchange categories:
- H-3, Q, R-1, and R-2 visa holders.
- Family-based fiancé(e) and spouse categories:
- K-1, K-2, K-3 visa holders.
- Humanitarian categories:
- S, T, and U visa holders.
- H-4 dependents of H-3 visa holders.
Prospective applicants should ensure that all their online accounts are compliant with DOS guidelines. This includes ALL social media accounts linked to the applicant. Disclosing one’s complete online presence maximizes the chances of approval.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.