U.S. adds three visa classes to mandatory social-media disclosure rule

From October 1, the United States will require I-visa media representatives, TN-visa professionals from Canada and Mexico, and TD-visa spouses and children to set all social-media accounts to public or open for the duration of the visa vetting process. The State Department issued the update on September 18, extending its online-presence checks that already include F-1, M-1, H-1B, J-1 and other visa categories. The directive covers major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok, and aims to identify any security or public-safety concerns.

Applicants should ensure their profiles match the data submitted on their applications and review any publicly visible posts. The change does not guarantee visa approval or denial, but adds another layer to the overall eligibility assessment. Officials said the measure reflects a broader emphasis on digital footprints in immigration decisions.