You already know that the U.S. immigration process is no walk in the park. But here’s something you might not have considered: your social media activity could make or break your application.

Those tweets, Instagram posts, and LinkedIn updates are not just for your followers anymore. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is paying attention, and so should you.

USCIS to Request Social Media Info on Immigration Forms

The USCIS has introduced a new policy requiring certain applicants to provide their social media handles as part of the screening process. Published in the Federal Register (90 FR 11324) on March 5, 2025, this policy is open for public comments until May 5, 2025.

While USCIS hasn’t specified which applicants will be affected, it’s expected to impact millions, including those applying for visas, Green Cards, asylum, and citizenship.

Immigration advocates caution that misinterpretations of online activity could lead to unfair scrutiny, making it essential for applicants to understand how this policy affects their case.

This change, aimed at enhancing national security and identity verification, adds a new layer of complexity to immigration applications.

USCIS Now Requests Social Media Handles in Line with Executive Order 14161, Enhancing Security Screenings for Immigration Benefits.

Over the years, the U.S. government has increasingly relied on social media to verify identities, prevent fraud, and assess potential risks.

Since 2019, the U.S. State Department has mandated that most visa applicants provide their social media handles. USCIS is now extending this requirement to various immigration categories. Officials argue that analyzing an applicant’s social media presence provides deeper insights into their background, associations, and past statements.

However, immigration advocates warn that this policy could lead to unfair scrutiny. Posts from years ago, satirical comments, or even controversial opinions might be taken out of context, creating unnecessary complications.

To avoid negative consequences, applicants must ensure their social media profiles reflect accurate and consistent information.

The rule is expected to impact over 3.5 million applicants annually, including those applying for green cards, citizenship, and visas like the O-1 and EB-2 NIW. While the policy has sparked debates about privacy and government overreach, it’s clear that social media monitoring is now a formal part of the immigration process.

This means your online presence could now be under scrutiny as part of the vetting process. At VeriPass, we specialize in helping exceptional individuals like you navigate these complexities with confidence. Let’s break down what this means for your immigration journey and how you can prepare.

Now, before you panic and start deleting all your accounts, let’s break this down. For high-achievers like you, this is actually an opportunity to showcase your credibility and achievements. But it also means you need to be mindful of what’s out there.

Which Immigration Forms Are Affected?

While USCIS hasn’t provided a definitive list of affected applicants, past policies suggest this rule will impact:
– N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

– I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status)

– I-131 (Application for Travel Document)

-I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence)

– I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)

– Work visa applicants (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)

– Green Card applicants (family and employment-based, including EB-2 NIW)

– Individuals applying for U.S. citizenship

Additionally, applicants from countries flagged for increased security screening may face stricter evaluations. USCIS will likely cross-check social media profiles against application details, looking for inconsistencies that could trigger further review.

If you’re applying for an EB-2 NIW or O-1 visa, this rule might not directly affect your current application, but it’s a good reminder to keep your online presence polished and professional.

The Timeline of USCIS Social Media Monitoring

USCIS has been keeping an eye on social media for years, but the process has become more formalized over time.

– 2016: USCIS set up a Social Media Division to detect fraud.

– 2017: The Trump administration introduced “extreme vetting,” including deeper social media scrutiny.

– 2019: Visa applicants had to disclose social media handles on forms DS-160 and DS-260.

– 2025: Executive Order 14161 expanded social media data collection to nine immigration forms.

Now, you understand that your digital footprint matters more than ever.

How USCIS Uses Social Media in Immigration Decisions

USCIS and consular officers review social media to:
1. Verify identities: Are you who you say you are?

2. Detect fraud: Does your online activity match your application?

3. Assess security risks: Are there any red flags, like connections to extremist groups?

4. Confirm relationships: For family-based applications, does your social media support your claims?

5. Evaluate professional history: Platforms like LinkedIn can verify your work history and qualifications.

For O-1 visa and EB-2 NIW applicants, this means your online presence should highlight your achievements, expertise, and contributions to your field.

What Social Media Content Is USCIS Looking For?

USCIS is on the lookout for content that could impact your eligibility, such as:

– Fraud indicators: Posts that contradict your application details.

– Security concerns: Connections to extremist groups or illegal activities.

– Relationship inconsistencies: Evidence that conflicts with family-based claims.

– Professional misrepresentations: Discrepancies in work history or qualifications.

At VeriPass, we help you audit your social media profiles to ensure they support—not undermine—your application.

How Social Media Can Make or Break Your Immigration Journey

Your social media activity can either strengthen your case or raise red flags. For example:

– A tech innovator’s LinkedIn profile showcasing patents and industry recognition can bolster an EB-2 NIW application.

– A creative artist’s Instagram portfolio highlighting awards and media coverage can support an O-1 visa petition.

On the flip side, posts about unauthorized work or controversial opinions could lead to delays or denials.

Things to NEVER Do on Social Media

To protect your immigration prospects, avoid:

– Posting about illegal activities or visa violations.

– Sharing extremist or threatening content.

– Making jokes about deceiving the government.

– Contradicting information in your application.

Remember, even deleted posts can be recovered, so think carefully before posting.

At VeriPass, we understand the challenges high-achieving professionals face in the immigration process. Our team provides personalized support to help you:

– Build a compelling case for your O-1 visa or EB-2 NIW.

– Navigate USCIS requirements, including social media monitoring.

– Showcase your achievements and credibility effectively.

With a proven track record of success, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

How to Protect Your Social Media Presence

Here are some best practices to safeguard your online presence:

1. Adjust privacy settings: Limit public access to your content.

2. Separate personal and professional accounts: Maintain control over what different audiences can see.

3. Audit your digital footprint: Search your name online and review past posts.

4. Be mindful of visibility settings: Understand how different platforms display your content.

5. Consult an immigration expert: At VeriPass, we help you identify and address potential red flags in your visa application process.

Don’t let social media missteps derail your immigration journey. Whether you’re pursuing an O-1 visa, EB-2 NIW, or another immigration benefit, VeriPass is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve your goals. Your future in the U.S. starts now!