The US Embassy announced that it expanding online presence reviews to all H-1B, H-4 Visa applicants as part of its standard visa screening. Social media vetting conducted globally for all applicants of all nationalities in these two visa categories. In a brief statement, the US Embassy asked applicants to apply as early as possible and expect longer processing times for these visa types. This statement comes at a time when pre-scheduled interviews for thousands of H-1B visa applicants in India postponed by months.
US Embassy Issues Global Alert on H-1B, H-4 Visas
“Worldwide Alert for H-1B and H-4 Visa Applicants. Beginning December 15, the Department of State expanded online presence reviews to all applicants as part of visa screening. This vetting conducted globally for ALL applicants of ALL nationalities for H-1B and H-4 visas,” the US Embassy said.
Enhanced Vetting Comes Amid Interview Delays in India
Amid the difficulties faced by many of visa applicants, the embassy said the change aims to address misuse of the H-1B program. It still allowing companies to hire the best temporary foreign workers.
“US embassies and consulates continue to accept and process H-1B, H-4 Visa applications. We encourage applicants to apply as early as they can and additional processing time for these visa types,” it added.
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