The Department of State recently announced an expansion of its online screening and vetting procedures for certain nonimmigrant visa applicants, effective March 30, 2026. Previously, only applicants for H-1B visas and their dependents, as well as F, M, and J student and exchange visitor visas, were subject to this type of review. The purpose of these measures is to ensure that all visa applicants meet the eligibility requirements for entry into the United States and do not pose a threat to national security or public safety.

This expansion applies to the following visa types:

• A-3 – Attendants, servants, or personal employees of diplomats
• C-3 (if a domestic worker) – Domestic workers of foreign government officials traveling to the U.S.
• G-5 – Domestic employees of representatives to international organizations
• H-3 – Trainees
• H-4 dependents of H-3 – Spouses and children of H-3 visa holders
• K-1 – Fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen
• K-2 – Children of K-1 visa holders
• K-3 – Spouses of U.S. citizens awaiting immigrant visas
• Q – Cultural exchange visitors
• R-1 – Religious workers
• R-2 – Dependents of R-1 visa holders
• S – Informants assisting law enforcement
• T – Victims of human trafficking
• U – Victims of certain crimes cooperating with law enforcement

What this means for applicants

Applicants in these visa categories are required to set their social media profiles to “public” or “open.” The Department uses publicly available information to determine admissibility and whether applicants’ intended activities align with their visa type. Failure to apply proper social media settings could result in delays or denials.

We can help clients understand these requirements and prepare applications in compliance with the updated guidelines.

For more information, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-visa-applicants.html

If you are applying for a visa affected by these changes, contact us to discuss how the new screening process may affect your application. 703-348-1663

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