What to Know About Expanded Vetting
February 5, 2026
In 2026, visa applications are no longer reviewed based only on forms and supporting documents. U.S. immigration agencies now place greater emphasis on digital vetting and may review an applicant’s online presence as part of the immigration process.
For many applicants, social media posts, public profiles, and other online activity can raise questions, often without intending to. Understanding how expanded vetting works and learning how to review your own online presence can help protect your immigration case.
At McBean Law, we advise clients on how digital activity may affect visa approvals, green card applications, and consular processing.
What Is Expanded Visa Vetting?
Expanded vetting allows immigration officers to review publicly accessible online information, including social media profiles, posts, photos, and online statements. This review is used to confirm details provided in immigration applications and interviews.
The focus is not on casual activity, but on whether online content aligns with the information submitted to U.S. immigration agencies.
Why Your Online Presence Matters for Immigration Cases
In today’s immigration process, applications are reviewed beyond the paperwork you submit. Immigration officers may look at publicly available online information to better understand who you are and whether your application is accurate and credible. What you share online, sometimes years ago, can play a role in how your case is evaluated, especially if it appears to conflict with the information in your immigration filings.
Immigration officers use online information to verify:
- Identity and background
- Employment and education claims
- Relationship authenticity (for family-based visas)
- Travel history and intent
- Potential fraud or misrepresentation
Even old or casual posts can be misunderstood when viewed without context.
How to Audit Your Online Presence
Before filing an immigration application or attending an interview, it is important to understand what information about you is publicly available online. Taking the time to review your digital footprint can help you identify potential inconsistencies, avoid misunderstandings, and ensure that your online presence aligns with the information provided in your immigration case.
Applicants should take time to review what is publicly visible online:
- Search your name, usernames, and email addresses
- Review all social media platforms for public content
- Compare online information with immigration forms
- Adjust privacy settings carefully, without deleting content
- Speak with an immigration attorney if concerns arise
Final Thoughts
In 2026, expanded vetting makes it more important than ever to be mindful of how your online presence may impact your immigration case. A proactive review of your digital footprint can help reduce the risk of delays, requests for additional evidence, or unnecessary scrutiny.
If you have concerns about how your online activity may be interpreted, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure your application is accurate, consistent, and well-positioned for review.
At McBean Law, we help clients nationwide navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law with confidence, compassion, and clarity. Led by Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy, a nationally recognized immigration attorney and 2024, 2025, & 2026 honoree of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®, McBean Law brings unmatched experience in both federal policy and courtroom advocacy. Before founding the firm in 2016, Attorney McBean Pompy worked in various roles within the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Congress, and both federal and state courts.
Schedule a consultation with us by calling (914) 898-9488 to get experienced legal support for your immigration journey. Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for more resources and updates.
FAQs:
1. Why does my online presence matter for my visa?
Immigration officers use online information to verify identity, employment and education claims, relationship authenticity for family-based visas, travel history, and potential misrepresentation. Even old or casual posts can be flagged if they appear inconsistent with your immigration forms.
2. Can old social media posts affect my immigration case?
Potentially, yes. DHS has made clear that historical online content may be reviewed if it is publicly available and relevant to verifying information in your application. Even older posts can raise questions if they appear inconsistent with current claims, timelines, or statements made to immigration officials.
3. How can I audit my online presence before applying?
You can audit your online presence by searching your name, usernames, and email addresses, reviewing all social media platforms for public content, comparing posts with your immigration forms, and adjusting privacy settings carefully without deleting content. Consulting an immigration attorney is also recommended if you have concerns.
4. Will deleting old social media accounts help my case?
Deleting accounts or posts right before filing can sometimes raise more suspicion than it resolves. It is better to carefully review your digital footprint, adjust privacy settings, and address potential concerns proactively with an attorney rather than removing content without guidance.
5. How can an immigration attorney help with online vetting concerns?
An experienced attorney can review your online presence, identify potential risks, and advise on how to present your case clearly and consistently. They can also help prepare you for interviews and respond to any requests for evidence related to your digital footprint.
