The United States now requires most visa applicants to list all social media usernames/handles used in the past five years on the DS-160 (nonimmigrant) or DS-260 (immigrant) application forms.
U.S. authorities say applications must be complete and truthful; omissions or false statements can lead to refusal and, in serious cases, ineligibility under U.S. immigration law.
What exactly you must provide
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Usernames/handles only (not passwords) for each platform listed on the form that you’ve used in the last five years. If you used multiple accounts, list each one. If you never used social media, you may select “None.”
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The State Department says it collects “social media identifiers” for identity verification and screening; consular officers will not request passwords.
Why accuracy matters
The State Department emphasizes that applicants must answer fully and honestly. Failure to provide accurate information can result in visa denial. Willful misrepresentation of a material fact may trigger ineligibility under INA §212(a)(6)(C)(i).
Extra note for students and exchange visitors
In June 2025, the U.S. government announced enhanced screening for F, M, and J visas, instructing applicants to adjust privacy settings to permit review of social media during processing. Nigerian applicants in these categories should check the latest guidance when completing their forms.
How to prepare (Checklist)
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Make a 5-year list of every social media handle you’ve used (e.g., X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok), including old or inactive accounts.
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Match each handle to the platform named on the DS-160/DS-260 list. If you truly have none, select “None.”
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Don’t provide passwords and don’t list other people’s accounts.
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Before you sign and submit, recheck for completeness and consistency with your application and interview statements.
Background
The requirement took effect May 31, 2019, when the State Department updated visa forms to request social media identifiers from most applicants worldwide. The change was part of broader security vetting updates.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Applicants should always consult official U.S. government resources and, where needed, qualified counsel.
