State Department Expands Online Presence Review for More Nonimmigrant Visas Starting March 30

The U.S. Department of State is broadening its 'Online Presence Review' screening process to include additional nonimmigrant visa categories, with the expanded policy taking effect on March 30, 2026. This review process involves consular officers examining applicants' social media activity and other online presence as part of the visa adjudication process. The expansion signals a continued emphasis by the State Department on vetting visa applicants through digital footprints. Consular officers may review publicly available social media profiles, posts, and online activity to assess whether applicants meet visa eligibility requirements or pose any national security concerns. For EB-3 applicants and those on nonimmigrant pathways that may eventually lead to employment-based green cards, this development underscores the importance of maintaining a consistent and appropriate online presence. Applicants should be aware that their social media accounts may be reviewed during consular processing. Immigration practitioners advise applicants to review their public social media profiles before any visa interview or application submission. Inconsistencies between online statements and information provided in visa applications could raise red flags during the adjudication process. Applicants undergoing consular processing for any nonimmigrant visa category covered under the expanded policy should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how this screening may affect their case and what steps they can take to prepare.