If you’re applying for a visa to the United States, one of the requirements may now include granting public access to your social media accounts. This is one of the conclusions of a recent announcement by the U.S. State Department, which was shared by the U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo via its social media channels.
The State Department emphasized its commitment to protecting the nation and its citizens by upholding the highest standards of national and public security in the visa issuance process.
“Obtaining a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right,” the statement noted.
According to the announcement, all available information is used during the visa screening and verification process in order to identify applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, particularly those who may pose a threat to U.S. national security.
“As part of the new guidance, we will conduct a comprehensive and thorough review, including the online presence of all F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applicants (students and exchange visitors). To facilitate this screening, all applicants in these categories will be directed to adjust the privacy settings on all their social media profiles to ‘public’,” the statement reads.
The embassy added that visa appointment scheduling will continue, and applicants should check appointment availability on the relevant embassy or consulate website.
“Every visa decision is a national security decision. The United States must remain vigilant during the visa issuance process to ensure that those applying for entry do not intend to harm Americans or our national interests, and that all applicants credibly demonstrate their eligibility for the requested visa—including their intent to engage in activities consistent with the conditions of their admission,” the post concludes.
Source: RTRS
