The United States has warned that Nigerians applying for visas risk denial if they fail to disclose their social media history.
In a notice issued by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria on its X handle, applicants filling out the DS-160 form for non-immigrant visas are now required to provide all usernames or handles they have used across social media platforms in the last five years.
Applicants are required to provide usernames or handles for every social media platform they have used during that period.
The statement read, “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.
“Applicants certify that the information in their visa application is true and correct before they sign and submit. Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future visas.”
The directive reflects a broader global trend in which governments increasingly scrutinize digital footprints as part of immigration and security vetting.
U.S. officials argue that reviewing social media activity helps consular officers confirm applicants’ identities and assess potential risks.
The measure was first introduced under the Trump administration in 2019 and has remained in force under President Joe Biden. Despite changes in government, the policy underscores Washington’s continued emphasis on tightened border security and visa control.
Nigeria, one of the largest sources of international travelers to the U.S., has strong demand for student, work, and tourist visas. With the new requirement, Nigerian applicants will have their online presence more closely cross-checked against the information provided in their visa forms.
The rule is particularly significant given Nigeria’s vibrant social media culture, where platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) are widely used for political engagement, entrepreneurship, and cultural expression.
The announcement comes on the heels of other recent visa policy adjustments affecting Nigerian travelers. In July, the U.S. government revised its visa reciprocity arrangement with Nigeria, limiting most non-diplomatic visas to single-entry permits valid for just three months.
