Applying for a US Visa? Your Social Media Must Be Public Now (New Rule 2025)
December 11, 2025 | Category: International
Applying for a US Visa? Your Social Media Must Be Public Now (New Rule 2025)
If you are planning to apply for a US visa soon, there is an important new rule you must follow. Starting December 15, 2025, all applicants for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visas must keep their social media accounts public during the visa process. This article explains the rule in simple language to help all travellers.
What is the new rule?
The US government now requires visa officers to review an applicant’s online presence. To make this possible, you must set your social media accounts to public while applying.
Who needs to follow this rule?
This rule applies to anyone applying for the following visa categories:
- H-1B – Work visa
- H-4 – Dependents of H-1B
- F – Student visa
- M – Vocational student visa
- J – Exchange visitor visa
Why is this required?
The US government checks your social media to:
- Confirm your identity
- Verify your background
- Check admissibility under US law
- Ensure you are a genuine applicant
Which social media accounts should be public?
Any account that includes your name, photo, or personal information should be made public. This includes:
- X (Twitter)
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Snapchat
- Personal blogs or pages
Steps travellers must follow
1. Change privacy settings to public
Open each social media account and set the privacy option to public. This allows visa officers to verify your identity.
2. Do not delete your accounts
Avoid deleting accounts right before applying. This may create confusion or lead to extra questions during review.
3. You do not need to post anything
Simply make your account visible. You do not need to upload new posts or make explanations.
4. Clean up if necessary
If there are posts that may cause misunderstanding, you can hide or archive them during the visa process.
How long should accounts stay public?
Keep your accounts public until your visa interview is completed and the decision is made. After that, you may switch back to private settings.
Helpful tips for a smoother visa process
Review all accounts
Make sure every platform where you use your real name is publicly visible.
Take screenshots for safety
Save screenshots of your profile settings and public view. This helps if any verification issue arises.
Check for consistency
Ensure your name, profile photo, and basic details match your visa application.
Seek help if needed
If you face confusion or technical issues, our team can guide you with the visa process. For assistance with US visa consultancy, feel free to contact us at 76938 58585.
This new rule is introduced to make identity checks faster and clearer. It is not meant to trouble travellers. By keeping your social media public temporarily, you can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted US visa process.