The United States has reiterated its requirement that all visa applicants must disclose social media usernames and handles they have used within the past five years.
In a statement from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, the embassy stressed that the information must be provided on the DS-160 visa application form and that applicants must certify the details as true and correct before submission.
The Mission warned that failure to provide social media information could result in visa denial and ineligibility for future applications.
The rule, first introduced during the Trump administration, was designed to strengthen background checks and enhance security. Officials said the policy remains in force and applicants are urged to comply fully.
The requirement applies to all non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist, work, student, and exchange programs. For student and exchange visas under F, M, and J categories, applicants must also ensure their social media accounts are set to public for proper verification.
According to U.S. officials, the reiteration of this rule is part of ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and safeguard the visa process.
