H-1B visa row: Trump admin orders enhanced vetting for applicants — what are the new requirements? - The Times of India
The U.S. government has rolled out tougher screening measures for applicants to the H-1B visa program, extending scrutiny beyond qualifications to their online activity and past job roles. Under the new rules—effective December 15—all H-1B visa candidates and their H-4 dependents must make social media profiles public so consular officers can review them. Authorities will also examine resumes, LinkedIn or similar profiles to check for past work in areas such as content moderation, fact-checking, misinformation, or “censorship” of free speech. Those found to have been involved in suppressing protected expression — directly or indirectly — may be deemed ineligible. The policy applies to both first-time and repeat applicants. This move particularly impacts Indian and other foreign tech professionals, complicating hiring and visa approvals amid a broader immigration crackdown.
The Key points
- The U.S. has introduced stricter vetting for H-1B visa applicants, targeting more than just educational or professional credentials.
- Starting December 15, all H-1B and H-4 applicants must set their social media accounts to public for review.
- Consular officers will scrutinize resumes and online profiles (e.g., LinkedIn) of applicants and their family members.
- Work history in fields like content moderation, misinformation control, compliance, or online safety will be closely examined.
- Applicants found to have participated in “censorship” or suppression of free speech may be disqualified.
- These new rules apply to both fresh visa applications and renewals or repeat applicants.
- The policy reflects increased focus by U.S. authorities on ideological or speech-related factors when granting visas.
- Workers from countries like India and China—who make up a large share of H-1B recipients—are likely to be disproportionately affected.
- Tech companies dependent on foreign skilled workers may face delays or disruptions in hiring pipelines.
- For the first time, family members (dependents) accompanying visa applicants are subject to the enhanced screening process too.
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