Summary
Starting December 15, the U.S. State Department will require international workers and students applying for certain visas, including H-1B, to make their social media accounts public. This is part of new rules aimed at screening applicants' online presence for national security reasons. The change follows increased immigration controls under President Trump.
Key Facts
- The new rule affects H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents, along with F, M, and J student visa applicants.
- Applicants must change their social media settings to public so officers can review their online activity.
- The State Department states the policy aims to identify anyone who could be a security threat.
- Social media checks have already been used by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- The H-1B visa program is important for technology companies to bring in foreign skilled workers.
- Since Trump's return to office, there has been an increase in visa revocations and stricter immigration controls.
- The new directive has raised concerns about privacy and the impact on lawful speech among universities and civil rights groups.
