Archive · 11 Dec 2025
US Expands H-1B Visa Vetting in India
The United States is making it harder for people to get certain work visas in India.
Starting December 15, they will check the online presence of all H-1B (work) visa applicants and their family members on H-4 visas.
This is to make sure these people are safe and will follow the rules.
The US started doing more checks after some protests at American universities.
They want to take their time to make sure everyone is eligible and not a risk to their country.
Some people who already had appointments had to wait much longer, until next year.
The US is also thinking about checking the social media history of people from other countries who can visit the US without a visa.
US to expand online vetting for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants in India starting December 15.
Vetting includes reviewing online presence to ensure applicants do not pose a security risk.
Visa interviews are being rescheduled based on resource availability.
Increased scrutiny follows pro-Palestinian protests at American universities.
US Embassy emphasizes thorough vetting to ensure eligibility and compliance with visa terms.
- Who
- US Embassy in New Delhi, H-1B and H-4 visa applicants
- What
- Expanded vetting for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, including social media review
- When
- Starting December 15
- Where
- India
- Why
- To ensure applicants do not pose a security risk and to conduct thorough eligibility checks
US Government
Visa Applicants
Vetting Process
US Government
The US government is expanding social media vetting to ensure applicants do not pose a security risk and are eligible for the visa.
Visa Applicants
Visa applicants may face delays and increased scrutiny, potentially affecting their plans and opportunities.
- Effective Date
- December 15
- Visa Types Affected
- H-1B and H-4
- Purpose of Vetting
- Ensure applicants do not pose a security risk
- Reason for Expansion
- Increased scrutiny following pro-Palestinian protests
- Vetting Process
- Online presence review
- Percentage of Indian H-1B Visa Holders
- 72.3%
- Fee for New H-1B Applicants
- $100,000
- Visa Waiver Program Countries
- 42 countries, including Britain, France, Germany, and South Korea
Sources
US Expands H-1B Vetting in India
US expands vetting of social media to H-1B applicants, dependents
US to start social media vetting of H-1B visa applicants, dependents from December 15
H1B visa interviews of Indians cancelled
US To Reject Tourist Visa If Applicant Plans To Give Birth During Stay
US visa: ‘Biometrics done, interview rescheduled’ — Applicants panic over cancellation
