U.S. visa application procedures will undergo a new adjustment. According to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Facebook page, starting December 15, applicants for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visas are required to set their social media accounts to “public” to facilitate necessary background reviews by U.S. authorities.
AIT noted that the measure is implemented in accordance with U.S. law to assist reviewing agencies in verifying applicants’ identities and eligibility for entry into the United States. The requirement applies to professional work visas under the H-1B category, dependent visas H-4, as well as student and exchange visitor visas F, M, and J.
The requirement forms part of the visa review process. Applicants are advised to ensure that the social media accounts they report are accurate and actively used, and to adjust their privacy settings in advance to avoid delays. AIT also reminded applicants that visa issuance is based on an overall assessment, and all required documents and procedures must still be completed in line with the latest announcements.
