US Expands Online Presence Review to TN, TD and I Visa Applicants from October 1
Updated: 2 minutes ago
WASHINGTON, September 18, 2026 — The Department of State has announced that effective October 1, 2026, it will broaden its online presence review to cover applicants in three additional nonimmigrant visa classifications: I (foreign media representatives), TN, and TD (USMCA professionals and their dependents).
To aid in the vetting process, all applicants for I, TD, and TN nonimmigrant visas are directed to adjust the privacy settings on their social media profiles to "public" or "open".
What the Expansion Covers
Visa Category | Description |
I | Foreign media representatives |
TN | USMCA professionals (Canadian and Mexican citizens) |
TD | Dependents of TN visa holders |
This expansion adds to a growing list of visa categories already subject to online presence review .
Visa Categories Already Subject to Online Presence Review
Category | Visa Classifications | Effective Date |
Students | F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2 | Late June 2025 |
Exchange Visitors | J-1, J-2 | Late June 2025 |
Temporary Workers | H-1B, H-3, H-4 dependents | December 15, 2025 |
Diplomatic and Official | A-3, C-3 (domestic workers), G-5 | March 30, 2026 |
Fiancé(e)s and Dependents | K-1, K-2, K-3 | March 30, 2026 |
International Cultural Exchange | Q | March 30, 2026 |
Religious Workers | R-1, R-2 | March 30, 2026 |
Witnesses, Informants, Victims | S, T, U | March 30, 2026 |
Foreign Media, USMCA Professionals | I, TN, TD | October 1, 2026 |
Official Statement
The Department of State stated:
"The Department utilizes all accessible information sources in the process of visa screening and vetting to identify applicants who might be ineligible to enter the United States, including those who may threaten national security or public safety. We consistently apply this thorough vetting standard to all visa applicants."
"Each visa decision is essentially a matter of national security. The United States carefully monitors the visa issuance process to ensure that applicants do not intend to harm Americans or jeopardize U.S. interests, and that they can convincingly prove their eligibility for the requested visa, including a sincere intention to comply with the terms of admission. Obtaining a U.S. visa is a privilege granted at the government's discretion, not a right."
What the Review Entails
Under the online presence review process, consular officers may examine:
Public posts, comments, photos, affiliations across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, and others
LinkedIn and professional profiles for consistency with petition details
Indicators of concern, including hostility toward the U.S., support for terrorism, or potential security risks
Applicants whose online presence contains information perceived as derogatory may face more extensive security screening, resulting in increased delays and possible visa refusal.
Impact on Applicants and Employers
Aspect | Impact |
Processing Delays | Longer visa adjudication timelines expected |
Appointment Availability | May become more limited at high-volume consular posts |
Administrative Processing | Increased likelihood of 221(g) notices |
Workforce Planning | Employers should build flexibility into timelines |
Practical guidance for applicants:
Set all social media profiles to "public" or "open" before the visa interview
Ensure online information (job titles, employers, dates) matches DS-160 and petition details
Dependents' social media activity can impact the principal applicant's case
Avoid making irreversible travel or relocation commitments until visa issuance is confirmed
Key Dates
Date | Event |
Late June 2025 | Online presence review begins for F, M, J |
December 15, 2025 | Expanded to H-1B and H-4 |
March 30, 2026 | Expanded to 13 additional categories |
October 1, 2026 | Expanded to I, TN, and TD |
Read Also
Official Resources
Resource | Link |
State Department – Announcement of Expanded Screening and Vetting | |
U.S. Department of State – Visas News | |
USMCA Professional Visa Information |
For the latest immigration updates, visa policy changes, and 2026 developments worldwide, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/category/usa
VisasUpdate.com – The world's most trusted visa intelligence hub. Unlock 2026 immigration breakthroughs, digital nomad policies, and real-time fee alerts—all in one place.
Bookmark us now: visasupdate.com/news – Stay ahead.
Comments