The United States Mission in Nigeria has begun enforcing a new visa rule that affects students and exchange visitors.
From now on, anyone applying for F, M, or J nonimmigrant visas must change the privacy settings on their social media accounts to public.
This move is aimed at giving US officials easier access to review the online activities of applicants during the visa process.
The announcement was shared on the official X page of the US Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria on Monday, July 8, 2025.
The new rule takes effect immediately.
F, M, and J visas are given to those coming to the United States for studies or exchange programs.
The US government said this update is part of wider efforts to better identify who is applying for entry and to check if the person meets the required standards to be allowed into the country.
Officials explained that the US uses every available method to screen applicants and prevent entry of those who may be a threat to national safety.
They added that social media checks are now a part of this process to better understand applicants’ backgrounds and intentions.