On March 25, 2026, the US Department of State (“DOS”) announced that beginning March 30, it is expanding its review of applicants’ online presence to include several additional nonimmigrant visa categories. The expanded screening update includes those applying for A-3, C-3 (for domestic workers), G-5, H-3 (and H-4 dependents of H-3 holders), K visas (K-1, K-2, K-3), as well as Q, R-1, R-2, S, T, and U visas. Visa applicants under these categories will now undergo a review of their publicly available social media and online activity. To facilitate this vetting, all applicants are instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to “public.”

Visa applicants under these categories join others who are already subject to online review, including H-1B workers and their dependents, along with F, M, and J visa applicants (typically students and exchange visitors). For applicants, it’s a good idea to take a quick look at your social media with fresh eyes, ensuring that you are mindful of how your profile comes across. In a time when online checks are more common, it’s vital to be transparent, consistent, and authentic.