The United States Mission in Nigeria has introduced a new visa requirement mandating all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas—primarily students and exchange visitors—to set their personal social media accounts to public visibility as part of enhanced security vetting procedures.
The directive, which takes effect immediately, was announced Monday via the Mission’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle and marks a significant shift in the US government’s efforts to thoroughly vet visa applicants before granting entry.
“Effective immediately, all individuals applying for an F, M, or J nonimmigrant visa are requested to adjust the privacy settings on all of their personal social media accounts to ‘public,’” the statement read.
The embassy explained that this requirement forms part of a comprehensive review process aimed at ensuring that visa applicants do not pose any security threats to the United States.
“We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security,” the mission stated.
F, M, and J visa categories are typically granted to international students, vocational trainees, and participants in cultural or educational exchange programs. With Nigeria ranking among the top countries for international students in the US, the new policy is expected to impact thousands of prospective Nigerian applicants.
This development follows a broader update from the US Department of State published on June 18, 2025, which outlined heightened scrutiny of social media activity among international applicants.
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision. The United States must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans or our national interests,” the department said.
The policy underscores the US government’s position that “a visa is a privilege, not a right,” and that all applicants must credibly demonstrate their eligibility and intent to comply with the visa’s purpose.
Nigerians intending to study or participate in exchange programs in the United States are advised to review their social media profiles carefully and ensure that content aligns with the requirements and standards expected by US authorities.
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