U.S. Embassy in India Implements Mandatory Public Social Media Requirement for Student and Exchange Visa Applicants
NEW DEHLI, India — June 24, 2025 Effective immediately, the U.S. Embassy in India has mandated that all applicants for F (academic), M (vocational), and J (exchange visitor) non-immigrant visas adjust their social media accounts to public settings. This directive aims to assist U.S. immigration officials in verifying applicants' identities and assessing their eligibility during the security screening process. The embassy announced this policy change via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, emphasizing the necessity of transparency in social media activity as part of the vetting process under U.S. law.
This policy shift aligns with broader U.S. efforts to enhance national security through comprehensive vetting procedures. Applicants are now required to provide access to their social media profiles, enabling consular officers to review online behavior over the past five years. The scrutiny focuses on identifying any anti-American sentiment, extremist views, or other indicators that may render an applicant inadmissible to the United States.
The implementation of this requirement has raised concerns among prospective students and exchange visitors, particularly regarding privacy and the potential for subjective interpretation of online content. Immigration experts advise applicants to conduct thorough audits of their social media presence, ensuring that their profiles reflect accurate and appropriate information. Failure to comply with the new guidelines, including maintaining private accounts or lacking a social media presence altogether, may negatively impact visa application outcomes.
This development underscores the increasing importance of digital footprints in immigration processes and highlights the need for applicants to be mindful of their online activities when seeking entry into the United States for educational or cultural exchange purposes.