Applying for a US Visa? Your Social Media May Be Reviewed
What Happened
The US State Department will expand its social media screening requirements from October 1 to include applicants for I, TN, and TD visas. Applicants in these categories will be required to set their social media accounts to "public" or "open" so officials can review their online presence as part of the visa vetting process. The categories cover foreign media representatives, certain Canadian and Mexican professionals, and their dependants.
Key Takeaways
The move is part of broader US efforts to strengthen visa screening using publicly available online information. While the rule is not specific to Indians, it is particularly relevant for Indian journalists applying for I visas. The US says the checks are intended to identify national security or public safety concerns and verify visa eligibility.