The US Embassy in New Delhi has rolled out a new rule for student and exchange visa applicants. From now on, anyone applying for an F, M, or J visa must provide social media usernames used in the last five years.
This change applies to students, vocational trainees, and cultural exchange participants. All details must be shared in the DS-160 visa form.
No Social Media Disclosure? No US Visa
The embassy has issued a clear warning: if you skip or lie about your social media history, your visa could be denied. Officials added that false statements may also harm your chances of getting a US visa in the future.
Applicants are required to confirm that all information provided is complete and truthful. This includes online identities used on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).
Why This Policy Matters Now
This rule isn’t entirely new, it has existed since 2019, but the embassy is now strictly enforcing it. The move follows recent tensions on US college campuses and renewed scrutiny over visa vetting processes.
Officials are now closely watching for signs of fake profiles or online behavior that may raise red flags. Publicly visible accounts can help consular officers verify an applicant’s identity and intent.
National Security and Online Behavior Linked
The policy is part of a broader effort to improve national security through digital transparency. By reviewing public social media content, officers aim to spot potential threats before issuing visas.
The embassy emphasized that this step is not aimed at punishing free speech, but at ensuring safety and trust. Political views or activism alone won’t lead to rejection—unless they signal harmful intent.
Indian Students Advised to Be Careful
With over 200,000 Indian students currently studying in the US, this update is important. If you’re planning to apply for a US visa, be honest about your digital history.
Check your privacy settings. Make sure your social media posts reflect who you are, without hiding important facts.
This new focus on online presence means your social media is now part of your visa profile. To avoid delays or denials, disclose all handles honestly and make your accounts accessible for screening.
Transparency and truthfulness are now essential for a smooth visa process.
