- Major Change: Student visa applicants MUST make social media profiles public.
- Visa Types Affected: F, M, and J visas.
- Reasoning: Enhanced security vetting to identify potential threats.
- Since When?: Policy in effect since 2019, but ramped up recently.
Why the sudden interest in your Instagram?
The U.S. Embassy says this new rule is all about beefing up security checks. They want to make sure that everyone entering the U.S. on a student visa is who they say they are and doesn’t pose a threat. Basically, they’re using your online presence to double-check your identity and intentions.
What Visas Are We Talking About?
Let’s break down those visa types:
- F Visa: For those hitting the books in academic studies.
- M Visa: For vocational or non-academic studies.
- J Visa: For exchange visitor programs.
The Fine Print: What You Need to Do
According to the embassy, all F, M, and J visa applicants need to switch their social media privacy settings to “public”. This allows U.S. officials to easily access and review your online activity.
Is this new? A brief history
Believe it or not, this isn’t entirely new. Since 2019, the U.S. has been asking for social media identifiers on visa application forms. But this new directive takes things a step further by requiring public access to your accounts.
State Department Speaks
The U.S. Department of State is standing firm, saying that a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. They’re committed to protecting national security and public safety, and this is one way they’re doing it. Here’s a direct quote:
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision. The United States must be vigilant…to ensure that those applying for admission…do not intend to harm Americans and our national interests…”
What if you don’t HAVE social media?
This is a valid question. The U.S. embassy has not yet addressed this specific scenario. However, it is safe to assume that if you don’t use social media, you won’t be penalized. However, for those who do, compliance is not optional.
Word to the Wise
If you’re planning to study in the U.S., get ready to adjust your social media settings. Keep your profiles clean, folks! What you post online could now impact your visa application. Consider this a friendly heads-up from your neighborhood Nigerian editor!
About The Author
