US H-1B visa rules: Now, visa is only granted if the applicant’s “social media” account is public..!

Washington: In a major policy shift, the United States has issued strict new guidelines for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, with President Donald Trump signing off on fresh orders that significantly expand scrutiny of foreign workers and their dependents.

According to an official notification released by the US government, consular officers now have the authority to deny visa applications from anyone found to be involved in activities related to “censorship of free speech.” The directive states that under specific sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act, officers may reject applications if credible evidence suggests the applicant has taken part in restricting protected expression.

A detailed memo circulated on December 2 to all US missions worldwide instructs US consular officials to thoroughly examine the résumés and LinkedIn profiles of H-1B applicants and their accompanying family members. Officials must verify whether applicants have worked in fields linked to misinformation control, fact-checking, content moderation, compliance, or online safety.

The order adds: “If evidence indicates the applicant was responsible for censorship of protected expression in the United States or participated in related activities, consular officers may determine the applicant to be ineligible.”

In addition to tighter background checks, the US has now made it mandatory for all H-1B and H-4 applicants to make their social media accounts publicly accessible. Previously, this requirement applied only to short-term visitors and students. The expansion of this rule marks one of the most aggressive monitoring policies implemented in recent years.

The US government has justified the move by stating that social media screening is necessary to determine whether applicants pose any national security risks. From December 15 onwards, posts, comments, and online activity will be reviewed to assess whether applicants hold anti-American views or support individuals or groups considered hostile to the United States.

The new rules have triggered concerns among prospective applicants, who fear that routine professional work related to content moderation or compliance could now be interpreted as censorship, risking visa denial.

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