White House highlights “America First” policy, enforces stricter H-1B and visa vetting

The White House emphasized renewed momentum in its immigration agenda, linking employment-related restrictions to its broader "America First" policy framework. In a post on X, the administration highlighted, "AMERICA FIRST," adding that "President Trump is cracking down on work permits and tightening the vetting process."

As part of this approach, the US government has introduced stricter screening requirements for H-1B visa applicants and their H-4 dependents, including mandatory social media checks starting December 15. Under the new rules, applicants must set their social media accounts to "public" so officials can review online activity as part of the visa evaluation process.

The US State Department, in an order issued Wednesday, instructed, "To facilitate this vetting, all applicants for H-1B and their dependents (H-4), F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas are required to adjust the privacy settings on all social media profiles to 'public'." The department reiterated that obtaining a visa to enter the United States is "a privilege and not a right," noting, "Every visa adjudication is a national security decision." Consular officers are directed to use all available information to determine admissibility and assess potential security risks.

The announcement has raised concerns among Indian nationals, who make up one of the largest groups of H-1B workers in the United States. The policy aligns with previous immigration measures under President Trump, including efforts to address alleged misuse of the H-1B program widely employed by US technology companies. In September, Trump had issued a proclamation titled Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers , imposing a one-time USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications - a move expected to significantly affect Indian professionals seeking employment in the US.

In a further expansion of visa restrictions, the Trump administration has reportedly moved to deny entry to fact-checkers, content moderators, and social media analysts, reflecting a broader effort to scrutinize individuals involved in online information and media verification roles.

Washington has temporarily suspended the processing of Green Card, citizenship, and other immigration applications for nationals from 19 "countries of concern" following a shooting involving an Afghan citizen. A US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) memorandum issued instructs officials to "place on hold" all asylum claims pending further review.

The decision came after a shooting in Washington DC that resulted in the death of US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and critically injured US Air Force Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe, 24. The suspect, 29-year-old Lakanwal, reportedly entered the United States through Operation Allies Welcome , a programme set up for Afghan nationals following the 2021 Taliban takeover.