Social Media Disclosure
US Customs and Border Protection has announced that social media information is now a mandatory data element for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications.
Applicants must provide their social media accounts from the last five years.
This change implements Executive Order 14161, Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats.
H-1B and H-4 Enhanced Screening
The Department of State has announced expanded screening and vetting for H-1B and dependent H-4 visa applicants.
Consular officers are conducting more thorough reviews of qualifications, employment history, and background information.
Processing times may increase as a result of enhanced scrutiny.
Preparing for US Visa Applications
Applicants should ensure their social media presence is consistent with their visa applications and does not contain material that could raise concerns.
Documentation should be comprehensive, accurate, and verifiable.
Given enhanced scrutiny, professional preparation of visa applications is more important than ever.