The United States government, on Monday, announced that Nigerians seeking visas must now provide details of all social media usernames they have used in the past five years.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria disclosed this in a statement on its official X account.
It warned that failure to comply could result in visa denial.
“Visa applicants are required to list all social media usernames or handles of every platform they have used from the last 5 years on the DS-160 visa application form,” the statement read.
The requirement, which applies to both immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants, is part of enhanced vetting measures introduced by the U.S. Department of State under President Donald Trump.
The department said the policy is aimed at strengthening national security by allowing consular officers to review applicants’ online presence during background checks.
Applicants are expected to provide usernames or handles from platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and others. The U.S. clarified that only usernames are required, not passwords.
The mission further noted that all applicants must certify that the information provided is accurate before submitting the form.
Failure to provide complete or truthful social media information, it warned, could lead to visa denial, processing delays, or even future ineligibility.
The Department of State has defended the measure, insisting it is necessary to strengthen security screening and confirm applicants’ identities.
However, civil liberties groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), have criticized the policy, arguing that it infringes on privacy and could discourage free expression.
Despite the concerns, the rule remains in effect, and applicants have been advised to fully disclose their social media history to avoid jeopardizing their chances.