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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about US visa applications and social media privacy

Top 10 Trending Questions: US Visa & Social Media Privacy (2026)

Do I really have to list my social media handles on the DS-160 or ESTA?

Answer: Yes. As of 2026, it is mandatory for nearly all visa applicants (F, M, J, H-1B, H-4, B1/B2) and ESTA travelers to provide social media identifiers used in the last 5 years.

Why: The US government uses this to confirm your identity and screen for security threats. Omitting an account is considered "misrepresentation," which can lead to permanent visa ineligibility.
Will they ask for my passwords?

Answer: No. Consular officers will never ask for your passwords. They only require your "public-facing" handles or usernames (e.g., @Traveler_John).

Privacy Note: While they don't need your password, they will review content that is publicly accessible to any internet user.
I heard I have to make my profiles "Public"—is that true?

Answer: Yes, for specific visa types. As of late 2025/early 2026, the Department of State has instructed applicants for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visas to set their profiles to "public" during the application process to facilitate vetting.

For others: While not strictly mandated for all B1/B2 (tourist) applicants yet, keeping profiles private may lead to additional "administrative processing" if the officer cannot verify your identity.
Should I delete my accounts before applying to be safe?

Answer: No, this is highly discouraged. Deleting accounts right before an interview is a major red flag.

The Risk: Government vetting tools can often find traces of deleted accounts. If they find an account you didn't disclose (because you deleted it), it looks like you are hiding something, which can trigger an immediate denial.
What happens if I genuinely don't use social media?

Answer: That is perfectly fine. You can select "None" on the application.

Pro Tip: Be prepared to briefly explain this during the interview. In 2026, "None" is a rare answer, so the officer may ask how you stay in touch with friends or family to ensure you aren't simply withholding handles.
Do I need to list "lurker" accounts or accounts with fake names?

Answer: Yes. You must list any handle used to "create or share content" or interact with others. If the account was active in the last 5 years, it must be disclosed, regardless of the name used on the profile.

What kind of posts actually cause visa denials?

Answer: The government isn't looking at your vacation photos. They flag:

  • Expressions of hostility toward the U.S. government or its citizens.
  • Evidence of work intent (for tourist visas) or links to illegal activity.
  • Endorsement of extremist or terrorist groups.
  • Inconsistencies (e.g., your LinkedIn says you're a CEO, but your visa says you're a student).
Can I be denied for my political opinions?

Answer: Generally, no. US policy states they do not deny visas based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or standard political affiliation. However, posts that cross the line into inciting violence or "hostile attitudes" toward U.S. institutions are grounds for denial under national security vetting.

I used a handle 4 years ago but forgot the name. What do I do?

Answer: Do your best to recover it. Search your old emails for "Welcome" messages from social platforms. If you absolutely cannot find it, you should provide as much detail as possible in the "Additional Information" section of the DS-160 to show you are acting in good faith.

Does the government monitor my social media after I get the visa?

Answer: While there isn't "live" 24/7 monitoring for every tourist, the US government reserves the right to review social media data stored in your "A-File" (Alien File) during future entries or when applying for visa renewals.

Ready to nail your interview? Social media is just one part of the puzzle. Would you like to generate a personalized checklist of documents you'll need to bring to the embassy based on your specific visa type? Start Your Assessment

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