US Expands Visa Social Media Checks for Applicants in 2026
The US Department of State has announced an expansion of its social media screening program for visa applicants, effective October 1, 2026. This new requirement mandates that applicants for I visas, which are designated for foreign media representatives, and TN visas, which are for professionals from countries under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), along with their dependants holding TD visas, must set their social media accounts to public.
This change is part of the US government's effort to conduct thorough background checks on individuals seeking entry into the country. Previously, social media screening was already in place for a range of other visa categories.
The announcement indicates a significant widening of the scope of digital background checks beyond just students and temporary workers. All applicants in the affected categories are advised to review their social media privacy settings before attending any visa appointments.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Legit.ng. Read the original report below.
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