Islamabad, Mar 6 2025: Trump Administration to Require Social Media Accounts from US Citizenship Applicants. Potentially requiring individuals seeking green cards, U.S. citizenship, asylum, or refugee status to disclose their social media accounts.
This proposal is for Social Media Accounts from US Citizenship, introduced by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), was recently published in the Federal Register, outlining the agency’s intent to enhance applicant screening procedures.
According to USCIS, collecting social media details is a crucial step in conducting thorough background checks for those applying for immigration-related benefits. USCIS has justified this move by referencing an executive order titled.
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“Protecting the US from Foreign Extremists and Other National Safety and Public Security Dangers,” originally issued by former President Donald Trump. The order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Other government agencies to utilize all available resources to ensure strict vetting of foreign nationals either seeking entry into the U.S. or already residing within the country.
Under the proposed policy, individuals applying for green cards, naturalization, asylum, or refugee status along with relatives of approved asylum seekers and refugees will be required to provide their social media handles on official application forms.
The USCIS estimates that this new requirement could affect more than 3.5 million applicants annually.The proposal has now entered a public comment period, allowing stakeholders to express their views on the regulation before it is finalized.
The 60-day window for public feedback will remain open until May 5, after which authorities will review responses before implementing the policy.
If approved, the social media disclosure requirement could significantly alter the U.S. immigration process by introducing an additional layer of digital scrutiny.
This initiative aims to bolster national security and public safety by ensuring that immigration applicants undergo comprehensive background checks.
However, the policy is expected to spark debate over privacy concerns and its potential impact on freedom of expression. Immigration advocates argue that monitoring social media activity could lead to subjective interpretations and possible misuse of data.
Meanwhile, supporters of the initiative believe it is a necessary step to enhance national security measures and ensure transparency in the immigration system.
As discussions unfold, the USCIS remains firm in its position that these changes will strengthen its ability to conduct rigorous applicant screening, reinforcing the U.S. government’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and national interests.
