US Consulates Rescheduling H-1B/H-4 Visa Appointments Due to New Online Presence Review Requirement

U.S. consulates have begun cancelling and rescheduling H-1B and H-4 visa appointments set for December 15, 2025, and later, citing the State Department’s new online presence review requirement. Many applicants are seeing new appointment dates pushed to the next year.  While biometrics appointments are proceeding, applicants are notified afterward that their visa interview will be moved.

Under the policy, launching December 15, H-1B and H4 visa applicants must make their social media accounts public and will be subject to review of their social media activity and other online content. This practice is already in place for F, M and J visa applicants since June 2025. Under this policy, derogatory or concerning online information may trigger additional security screening, potentially causing delays or visa denial.

Applicants with appointments on or after December 15 should expect potential cancellations, longer wait times for new appointments, and an increased likelihood of extended security checks. Individuals with upcoming travel plans or any past arrests should exercise additional caution and consult with their employers or immigration counsel.

Please contact Izidora Levi at [email protected] if you require assistance.