The US Embassy in Bangkok has again announced that all applicants for a wide range of US nonimmigrant visas must set their social media accounts to public. The requirement is effective immediately and applies to multiple visa categories, with officials stating it is intended to support identity verification and admissibility screening under US law. Failure to comply will result in delays to visa processing.
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The embassy posted the update on its official Facebook page on Monday 21 April, stating that the policy is designed to facilitate vetting procedures. It applies to applicants for A-3, C-3 (domestic worker), G-5, H-1B, H-3, H-4 dependents of H-1B and H-3, F, M, J, K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T and U nonimmigrant visa categories. Applicants are required to adjust privacy settings on all social media accounts to public to allow screening authorities to review available information.
The announcement follows ongoing efforts by US authorities to strengthen visa vetting procedures globally, particularly where identity verification and admissibility assessments are concerned. According to the embassy statement, social media review is used as part of the broader screening process conducted under US immigration law.
The announcement prompted mixed reactions on the embassy’s social media post. Some users criticised the measure as an invasion of privacy and raised concerns about transparency and civil liberties. Others questioned how the policy would apply to applicants who do not use social media platforms. A smaller number of commenters expressed support, arguing that stricter screening could improve security and immigration control.
The embassy did not indicate any exemptions for applicants without social media accounts, nor did it provide additional detail on how the information gathered would be assessed beyond its stated role in confirming identity and admissibility.
The Bangkokpost reported that applicants affected by the rule will need to ensure compliance with the new requirements before submitting or progressing visa applications, or risk delays in processing times. Further clarification from US immigration authorities may emerge as the policy is implemented across visa services in Bangkok and other posts.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 21 Apr 2026