DOS Expands Online Presence Review to TN and TD Visa Applicants
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has further expanded its online-presence screening for nonimmigrant visa applicants. Effective October 1, 2026, the review now includes TN professionals and TD dependents applying for visas. DOS already conducts similar screening of H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, as well as F, M, and J visa applicants.
What’s New?
Public Social Media Settings: DOS instructs TN and TD visa applicants to set the privacy settings on all social media profiles to “public” or “open” to facilitate consular review. Applicants should ensure that information on their profiles is consistent with their visa applications and supporting documents, including disclosed social media identifiers.
Consular Visa Applications: The new TN/TD directive concerns visa applications at U.S. embassies and consulates. Canadian citizens who do not need to apply for a TN or TD visa are generally not affected by this particular directive.
What to Expect?
Plan Ahead: Applicants and employers should allow for possible additional screening and visa-processing delays before scheduling travel. Review online profiles and application materials in advance, and do not delete or alter information to conceal inconsistencies. Applicants with questions about their online presence should consult immigration counsel before their visa interview.
