Archive · 25 Jun 2025
US Mandates Public Socials for Visas; Backlash Grows
The US government is making it tougher to get visas, particularly for students and exchange visitors.
Now, anyone applying for an F, M, or J visa must make their social media profiles public.
The government says this helps them check who you are.
Some people think this is a violation of privacy, but others say it's important for safety and security.
It is to ensure people are who they say they are to ensure they can enter the country.
US mandates public social media profiles for F, M, and J visa applicants.
The new policy aims to verify identity and eligibility.
Applicants must make their social media accounts public.
Many social media users expressed concerns about privacy.
Others supported the move, citing national security.
- Who
- F, M, and J visa applicants, including students and exchange visitors.
- What
- US requires public social media profiles for F, M, and J visa applicants.
- When
- Effective immediately as of June 2025.
- Where
- US Embassy in India.
- Why
- To verify the identity and eligibility of visa applicants for national security.
Individuals
US Government
Privacy vs. Security
Individuals
Invasion of privacy and overreach of government authority.
US Government
Necessary precaution for national security.
- Visa Types Affected
- F, M, and J visas
- Policy Change
- Public social media profiles are required
- Purpose
- To facilitate identity and eligibility checks
- Affected Group
- Visa applicants
Sources
US asks student visa applicants to make social media accounts public
Want A US Visa? Unlock Your Social Media First
US embassy in India issues fresh notice on detention, deportation and future visa eligibility
Those who enter US illegally will face jail time, deportation: Embassy
US embassy warns of jail, deportation and visa bans for illegal migrants
Effective Immediately For Non-Immigrant Visa Applicants: Make all social media accounts public, says new US rule
'Face jail and deportation if...': US issues fresh warning for Indian travellers on illegal migration
