The United States Department of State has expanded online presence reviews for all H-1B and H-4 visa applicants worldwide, effective from 15th of this month. The enhanced screening will apply to applicants of all nationalities as part of the standard visa vetting process.

 

The department has said that this move aims to curb misuse of the H-1B programme while continuing to allow U.S. companies to hire highly skilled foreign professionals. The U.S. embassies and consulates across the world will continue to accept and process H-1B and H-4 non-immigrant visa applications.

 

However, applicants have been advised to apply early and be prepared for additional processing time under the revised screening norms.