- The U.S. now requires visa applicants to disclose all social media accounts used in the past five years.
- This requirement is applicable to individuals filling out the DS-160 form for non-immigrant visas.
- Applicants must provide usernames or handles for each social media platform they have used during this period.
The United States has announced that visa applicants must now provide all social media accounts they have used in the past five years when applying for a visa.
According to a notice from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, this requirement applies to individuals completing the DS-160 form, which is the standard application for non-immigrant visas. Applicants are expected to list the usernames or handles for every social media platform they have engaged with during this period.
Statement from the U.S. Mission
“Visa applicants must include all usernames or handles for any social media platforms used in the last five years on the DS-160 form. By submitting the application, applicants certify that all information is accurate and complete. Failure to disclose social media accounts could result in visa denial and affect eligibility for future visas.”
This move reflects a broader trend of governments increasingly examining digital footprints as part of security and immigration assessments.
Initially implemented in 2019 under the Trump administration, the policy was part of tighter visa screening procedures and has continued under the Biden administration. U.S. officials note that reviewing applicants’ online activity helps consular officers identify potential security risks and confirm applicants’ identities.
Key Details
Nigeria is one of the top countries sending travelers to the U.S., with high demand for student, tourist, and work visas. The country also has one of Africa’s most active social media communities, with platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) widely used for cultural, entrepreneurial, and political engagement. The new requirement gives visa officers an official method to cross-check applicants’ social media activity with information submitted on visa forms.
This announcement comes at a time when U.S. authorities are tightening visa policies for Nigerian citizens. In July, the U.S. introduced stricter conditions for most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas, including issuing single-entry visas valid for only three months. This change significantly altered the visa reciprocity framework between the two countries and aligns with the U.S. government’s broader security and immigration objectives.
Given the high demand for U.S. visas in Nigeria, following this disclosure rule will likely become crucial for ensuring smoother processing for thousands of applicants annually.
