US Introduces Stricter Visa Regulations Requiring Social Media Disclosure
In a significant policy update, the United States has mandated visa applicants to disclose all social media usernames or handles used over the past five years. This new directive was communicated by the US Embassy in India, emphasizing the national security implications of visa adjudication.
Mandatory Social Media Disclosure on DS-160 Forms
The embassy clarified that every visa applicant must list all social media identifiers for platforms they have engaged with in the previous five years within the DS-160 visa application form. It is also required that applicants certify the accuracy and completeness of this information before submitting their application.
Failure to provide this data could result in visa denial and jeopardize eligibility for future US visas, underscoring the serious consequences of omission.
Privacy Settings Adjusted for Student and Exchange Visitor Visas
In addition to listing their social media accounts, applicants under the F (student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) visa categories must set their social media profiles to public during the vetting process. This measure facilitates verification of their identity and eligibility under US immigration law.
Context Behind the Enhanced Screening
This policy builds upon social media identifier requirements that have been part of US visa applications since 2019. The embassy highlighted that each visa decision involves a thorough national security assessment.
Recent enforcement efforts reflect broader immigration policy measures aimed at tightening controls and ensuring compliance. Violations, including illegal entry, drug use, or other criminal activities while in the US on a visa, may lead to detention, deportation, and permanent visa ineligibility.
US Embassy’s Continued Messaging on Visa Compliance
- The embassy reiterated that a US visa is a privilege, not a right, with screening procedures extending beyond visa issuance.
- Illegal use of drugs or law violations while on a visa impact future eligibility.
- Illegal immigration and visa abuse will not be tolerated, with stricter restrictions placed on individuals facilitating mass or unlawful immigration.
Overall, these steps aim to reinforce US immigration laws, safeguard border security, and ensure visa applicants meet all requirements before entering the country.
