Planning to study in the United States? Here’s an important update for all international students, exchange visitors, and vocational trainees!

🇺🇸 New U.S. Visa Requirement: Make Your Social Media Public

The U.S. Department of State has introduced a new mandatory screening process for applicants of F (academic student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) nonimmigrant visas. Effective immediately, all applicants must set their social media accounts to ‘public’ during the visa application process.

This move is aimed at strengthening security and helping U.S. immigration authorities verify applicants’ identities, background, and admissibility under existing laws.

🔍 What This Means for You

If you are applying for an F, M, or J visa:

• You must make all social media profiles publicly viewable for the vetting period.

• This includes platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), LinkedIn, TikTok, and others listed during your visa application.

• Any private or hidden profiles could delay your visa processing or result in denial due to non-compliance with vetting requirements.

💡 Why This Policy?

This update follows an ongoing trend in U.S. immigration policy to include social media background checks as part of national security and fraud prevention measures. With student visa applications increasing post-pandemic, the U.S. government is looking to ensure that applicants meet identity and admissibility standards beyond just documentation.

📌 What Should Applicants Do Now?

1. Review your online presence: Remove any inappropriate content or misleading information.

2. Adjust privacy settings: Set all mentioned social media accounts to public before and during the visa process.

3. Be transparent: The information you provide in your visa application must match your digital footprint.

4. Stay updated: Keep an eye on official U.S. Embassy or Consulate announcements and ensure full compliance.

📎 Source:

U.S. resumes student visas with mandatory social media screening – India Today, June 19, 2025

✈️ Final Thoughts

While this policy may seem intrusive, it’s critical for students and exchange visitors to cooperate and prepare early. Your online presence is now part of your visa profile, and being proactive can help ensure a smoother process.

If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. student visa or need help with this requirement, feel free to contact our expert counsellors today.

📞 Need guidance? Reach out to Cosmos Education today.