The United States Mission in Nigeria has introduced a new requirement for individuals applying for student and exchange visas. Effective immediately, applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas must set their personal social media accounts to public visibility.
This policy shift, announced via the Mission’s official X page, is part of broader efforts to strengthen identity verification and security screening. According to the statement, making social media profiles public will aid in assessing applicants’ eligibility and intentions.
The F, M, and J visa categories are designated for students and participants in academic or cultural exchange programs. The U.S. Department of State emphasised that visa approval involves a thorough review process, including an applicant’s online activity, to guard against potential threats to national security.
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” the Department said in an earlier June update. The directive is aimed at ensuring that applicants’ online presence aligns with the stated purpose of their entry into the United States.
The U.S. government reiterated that obtaining a visa is a privilege and not a guaranteed right, reinforcing its commitment to rigorous vetting of all foreign nationals seeking entry.
