Over the past year, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) has expanded social media screening requirements for non-immigrant visa applicants. This expansion of digital review includes F-1 student and J-1 Exchange Visitor visa applicants, F-2/J-2 dependents, H-1B applicants, and H-4 dependents as confirmed by a March 25 DOS announcement. This continued expansion indicates that online presence review is becoming standard practice.
During the social media screening process, DOS instructs visa applicants to adjust the privacy settings on social media profiles to “public” or “open” so that the consular officers can assess visa eligibility and evaluate national security concerns.
Visa applicants should:
- Anticipate increased visa processing times and plan travel accordingly.
- Expect more frequent administrative processing 221(g) which could result in visa applications being temporarily flagged as “refused” until the screening process has completed.
- Ensure consistency of information in your social media content. Review LinkedIn and other online profiles to confirm that they align with information provided in the Form DS-160 (nonimmigrant visa application). Inconsistencies with employment authorization timelines or any omissions may raise credibility concerns during the review process.
Information on the visa application process for those on Columbia-sponsored visas can be found at Visas and Travel | ISSO.
As always, ISSO advisers remain available to provide guidance and support. Please do not hesitate to contact ISSO if you have questions.
