Complete these steps to prepare your social media profiles for visa application
Preparation
Audit
Cleanup
Application
Create a comprehensive list of all social media accounts you've used in the past 5 years, including inactive ones.
Record exact usernames (not display names) and profile URLs for each account.
Change privacy settings to make all profiles publicly viewable (required as of June 18, 2025).
Request and download your data from major platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.).
Systematically review all posts, photos, videos, and status updates for potential red flags.
Review comments you've made on others' posts and your interactions with controversial content.
Review all groups, pages, and organizations you follow or are members of.
Check all content where you've been tagged by others, including photos and posts.
Ensure all profile information is accurate and consistent with your visa application.
Delete or archive posts containing political activism, controversial opinions, or inappropriate behavior.
Remove tags from photos and posts that could be viewed negatively by visa officers.
Unfollow or leave groups that could be seen as politically sensitive or inappropriate.
Revise bio and about sections to highlight educational goals and positive intentions.
Post content that demonstrates your academic interests and positive view of US education.
Accurately fill out the social media section of your DS-160 form with all usernames.
Verify that all social media information on DS-160 matches your actual accounts.
Keep all accounts public throughout the visa application and interview process.
Avoid posting controversial content during the application process.