The US consulates in Karachi and Islamabad have issued a new directive requiring all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas to make their social media accounts public.
What is Changing for Visa Applicants?
Applicants under the following visa categories are now affected:
| Visa Type | Purpose |
| F | Academic Studies |
| M | Vocational/Technical Training |
| J | Exchange Visitor Programs |
Key New Requirements for US Visa
- All social media profiles (like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X) must be set to public.
- This allows US consular officers to review online activity for identity and background checks.
- Failure to comply may result in visa denial or ineligibility for future applications.
- Applies to all applicants from Pakistan and India seeking these visa categories.
This move is based on a June 18 internal directive from the US State Department which instructs consular officials to perform more detailed background checks.
The goal is to identify:
- Individuals who may hold hostile views toward the US
- Anyone posing a threat to US national security
Since 2019, US visa applicants have been required to list their social media handles in visa application forms. However now the requirement goes further not only do you need to provide your accounts but they must be visible to the consular staff.
Breaking news: The State Department is requiring that all student visa applicants make their social media accounts public to be scrutinized for hostility toward the U.S., according to a cable obtained by The Washington Post. https://t.co/P33hO1eXYa
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) June 18, 2025
According to the official announcement:
“Every visa decision is a national security decision. We must ensure applicants have no harmful intent toward Americans or our institutions.”
How to Prepare If You are Applying for US Visa
Set all your listed social media profiles to public visibility
Remove any content that could be misinterpreted or seen as offensive
Be ready for deeper background checks
Stay updated via official US embassy or consulate channels
Also read this: USA to Impose Travel Restrictions on Pakistan and Afghanistan: Report
