The U.S. State Department has announced new social media requirements for visa applicants, mandating that all H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visa applicants set their social media accounts to public starting December 15, 2025. This requirement will expand on March 30, 2026, to include 15 additional visa categories, such as K-1, R-1, A-3, T, and U visas. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has proposed that all Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applicants from 42 Visa Waiver Program countries provide five years of social media history.
Key Details:
- New requirement effective: December 15, 2025, for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visa applicants.
- Expansion date: March 30, 2026, to include K-1, R-1, A-3, T, and U visas.
- CBP proposal: Five years of social media history mandatory for ESTA applicants.
- Total visa categories affected: 20 by March 2026.
These new regulations may significantly impact foreign nationals applying for U.S. visas, as failure to comply could lead to removal from the country. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: Kevin J. Andrews