The US Embassy in Nigeria has introduced a new requirement for visa applicants, mandating that they provide a list of all social media usernames and handles used over the past five years as part of their visa application process. This directive aims to bolster national security through enhanced screening measures.
The policy applies to both immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories, covering individuals seeking student, tourist, business, or work permits. Applicants must disclose usernames and handles from various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and others listed in the visa application forms.
The requirement does not extend to passwords, private messages, or confidential content, but strictly to publicly identifiable social media identifiers. Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and potential ineligibility for future US visas.
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The US Department of State introduced this policy in 2019 as part of its global counter-terrorism and security strategy aimed at tightening entry requirements. The measure is designed to strengthen security checks, enhance vetting procedures, and help US authorities assess potential security or immigration risks posed by applicants.
Stakeholders in Nigeria have mixed opinions about the policy. Some immigration lawyers and travel consultants argue that it could discourage potential applicants who may see it as an invasion of privacy. Others believe the measure is in line with global security realities and may help build trust in the visa system.
