Understanding the New H-1B/H-4 Consular Interview Requirements

Understanding The New H-1b/h-4 Consular Interview Requirements

Please join Immigration Attorney Jioselin Juarez Contreras and Client Services Manager Arianna Gonzalez for an in-depth session on Thursday, December 18th, at 11:00 AM PST / 2:00 PM EST as they break down the Department of State’s newly implemented directive for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. This session will explore what has changed under the new guidance and why DOS is expanding online-presence vetting at this time. The presenters will clarify what “online presence” encompasses beyond traditional social media and explain why applicants are now being instructed to make their profiles public. We will also discuss whether these requirements apply only to principal H-1B beneficiaries, the role LinkedIn plays in consular adjudications, and the types of prior work activities—lawful or otherwise—that may now draw increased scrutiny during visa processing. The session will further address how even legitimate past employment can raise issues at the visa stage, what DOS means by the “censorship of protected expression,” and whether applicants should delete old posts or profiles before their interview. Instead of reactive measures, participants will learn the proactive steps applicants should take to prepare effectively. Jioselin and Arianna will also examine how this expanded vetting has impacted visa interview scheduling, the extent and significance of current delays, whether delays are concentrated in India or more widespread, and what occurs if an applicant appears on their original appointment date. Additional topics include the flexibility of rescheduling interviews, the risks applicants face when traveling abroad for stamping under current conditions, and what employers should be prepared to do when their workforce is affected. The session will conclude with the most important takeaways for H-1B and H-4 applicants navigating today’s evolving consular landscape.