White House Announces Strict New Work Permit Rules: The US government recently indicated it will significantly tighten work permit and visa applications. This move is part of the White House’s “America First” policy, which aims to further tighten the vetting process for foreign workers and their families. The new directives will impact millions of applicants, especially those applying for H-1B visas. The administration has made it clear that obtaining a visa will be considered a privilege, not a right.
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Social Media Scans to Begin December 15
The most significant of these changes is that online activity scrutiny of visa applicants will now be mandatory. Starting December 15, social media checks will be mandatory for H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents. Previously, officials did not have access to personal social media accounts, but now the rules have been changed, allowing officials to conduct in-depth background checks on applicants.
Mandatory Profiles to Be Public
To simplify this new vetting process, the US State Department has issued clear guidelines. Now, all applicants for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J non-immigrant visas must make the privacy settings of their social media profiles public. This is intended to ensure that consular and security officials can thoroughly evaluate online activities. The government states that this step is necessary to assess security risks and determine whether applicants are eligible for entry into the United States.
Visa Decisions Now a Matter of National Security
The State Department has also clarified that every visa decision is linked to national security. The administration stated that officials must be vigilant to ensure that no individual intends to cause harm in the United States. By reviewing public social media activity, officials can anticipate any threats. This step is designed to deter individuals who could pose a threat to the United States.
New Financial Barriers for H-1B Workers
In addition to the social media crackdown, the administration has also increased financial barriers. A proclamation issued in September, titled “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” imposed a large one-time fee on new H-1B visa applications. A payment of US$100,000 will now be mandatory for new H-1B visas. This move is likely to have a particular impact on Indian professionals, as India receives the largest number of H-1B visa applications.
Green Card Processing Halted for Certain Countries
This strictness is not limited to temporary work visas. The US administration has temporarily halted green card, citizenship, and other immigration application processing for citizens of 19 specific countries. This decision was made following a tragic shooting incident by an Afghan national in Washington, D.C., which resulted in the death of US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and seriously injuring US Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolff. Refugee claims and other application processes have been halted for citizens of these countries.
Impact on Indian Professionals and Families
These announcements have raised concerns among Indian citizens. Indian professionals constitute a significant portion of H-1B workers in the United States. High application fees and intense scrutiny of social media have caused concern within the community. Families are particularly concerned about privacy issues and the potential for visa rejection based on online history.
Summary of Key Immigration Changes
| Policy Change | Target Group | Main Requirement / Action |
|---|---|---|
| Social Media Check | H-1B, H-4, F, M, J Visa Holders | Make all social media profiles public |
| New Application Fee | New H-1B Applicants | Pay a $100,000 USD fee |
| Immigration Ban | Citizens of 19 Countries | Pause on Green Card and Refugee processing |
| Screening Priority | All Applicants | Strict review of online activities |
Important Instructions for Visa Applicants
- Immediately review all your social media accounts and ensure they are ready for scrutiny.
- Change the privacy setting from private to public before the visa interview or evaluation.
- This rule also applies to H-4 visa holder dependents, including spouses and children.
- Counselors will use your online activities to evaluate your character and intent.
Keep an eye on the State Department’s official announcements for the list of affected countries and other updated information.
FAQs
Q. When will the mandatory social media screening start?
A. The screening will begin on December 15, 2025, for H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents.
Q. Do I need to make my social media profiles public?
A. Yes, all social media profiles must be set to public for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visa applicants.
Q. Is this rule applicable to dependents?
A. Yes, spouses and children on H-4 visas are also required to comply.
