Likes, Posts & Port of Entry: The Digital Footprint Dilemma

In recent months, there have been many questions and concerns among international families about new US policies on social media. We understand this can be a source of anxiety. The purpose of this guide is to provide a clear, factual overview of the process and offer practical advice to ensure a smooth and successful visa application.

The Facts of Social Media Screening

Since June 2025, the U.S. government has expanded its vetting procedures for many visa applicants, including those on student visas (F and M). While some of these policies have been in place since 2019, the new guidance has made the process more thorough.

Here is what is officially required:

• Disclosure:

  On the DS-160 visa application form, you are now required to list all social media usernames or handles for every platform you have used in the past five years. This includes platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

• Public Profiles:

  Applicants for F, M, and J visas are requested to set the privacy settings on all of their social media accounts to 'public' to facilitate the vetting process. A refusal to do so may be a reason for rejection.

The Purpose of the Review: What Officials are Looking For

The primary goal of this review is to enhance national security, prevent fraud, and verify the information provided in the application. It is not an attempt to profile individuals based on their race, religion, or political views.

Officials are specifically looking for a few key things:

• Inconsistencies:

  They check to see if your social media activity is consistent with the information you provided in your application. For example, claiming to be a student when your posts suggest you are working full-time without authorisation.

• Security Risks:

  They vet for any indication of illegal activity, dangerous content, or connections to extremist or terrorist organisations.

• Intent:

  The review helps officers understand your genuine intent to study. Your online presence should support your claim that you are a serious student with a plan to return to your home country after your studies.

Practical Advice for a Successful Visa Application

Navigating this new requirement is straightforward when you are prepared. Here are a few pieces of practical advice for you and your child:

• Be Honest and Thorough:

  You must provide all usernames you have used in the past five years. Failing to disclose an account can be seen as an attempt to hide information, which could lead to a visa denial.

• Audit Your Online Presence:

  We strongly advise students to review their public profiles. While you should not try to erase your entire online history (as this can look suspicious), it's wise to ensure your public content reflects your identity as a mature, responsible student.

• Maintain a Professional Presence:

  A positive online presence that highlights academic interests, extracurricular involvement, and your passions can be a valuable asset to your application.

Ready to Discuss Your Options?

We understand that navigating these new rules can feel complex. As a UK-registered company, we provide expert, unbiased admissions guidance to international families. While we cannot provide legal advice on visas, we can help you prepare a profile that reinforces your child’s identity as an excellent and trustworthy student.

Please feel free to book a free consultation.