The new rules came into force on March 30, 2026. The additional screening now applies to applicants for A-3 and C-3 visas for domestic workers, G-5, H-3, and their family members under H-4, as well as K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T, and U visas.

Social media screening remains mandatory for H-1B visa applicants, as well as students and exchange program participants under F, M, and J categories.

The U.S. Department of State stated that all applicants in the specified categories are advised to set their social media accounts to public mode.

According to the U.S. side, this is necessary to facilitate identity verification and assess eligibility for entry into the United States.