Bridgetown, Barbados — In a move aimed at enhancing national security and identity verification, the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown has issued a notice informing applicants for F, M, or J nonimmigrant visas that they are now expected to set all their social media accounts to public status, effective immediately.
The directive applies to individuals seeking entry to the United States for academic, vocational, or exchange programs. According to the embassy, this change is designed to facilitate the vetting process by allowing consular officers to cross-reference visa application information with social media activity, helping to confirm the applicant’s identity and admissibility.
Visa applicants must also continue to list all social media handles used over the past five years on their DS-160 visa application form. This has been a longstanding requirement, but the new guidance further emphasizes the importance of transparency.
Applicants are reminded that omitting or falsifying any information on their visa applications — including their social media presence — can result in visa denial and may make them ineligible for future U.S. visas. Each applicant certifies the accuracy of their information when they sign and submit their forms.
While some privacy advocates have raised concerns about the implications for personal freedom and data protection, U.S. authorities maintain that the measure is critical to maintaining national security and upholding the integrity of the visa process.
For more information, applicants are advised to contact the U.S. Embassy or visit the official visa services website.
