Individuals applying for U.S. visas must now list all social media usernames and handles used over the past five years as part of a heightened national security protocol.
The requirement is outlined in the DS-160 visa application form, under the Social Media section managed by the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center. Applicants are prompted to identify the social media platforms they have used, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, and others, and provide corresponding user IDs such as usernames, email addresses, or phone numbers. However, applicants are explicitly instructed not to disclose passwords.
“Do you have a social media presence?” the form asks, requiring users to either select platforms from a provided list or choose “None” if they have not used any in the last five years. Multiple accounts or identifiers must be submitted individually through the “Add Another” option.
Photo/Courtesy/@USEmbassyKenya
This measure, part of broader efforts to bolster national security and screen for potential threats, reinforces the importance of transparency in the visa process. By signing and submitting the DS-160, applicants certify that all information, including social media data, is accurate and complete.
Failure to disclose social media details, or knowingly omitting them, may result in visa denial and possible ineligibility for future U.S. visa applications.
The U.S. government emphasizes that the information collected is used to assess eligibility and prevent security risks, with privacy safeguards in place. Passwords are not required, and only public identifiers are collected to evaluate an applicant’s public online presence.
The updated requirements apply to nearly all immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants worldwide.
Written By Rodney Mbua
