US DEPARTMENT OF STATE ADDS QUESTION REGARDING SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS

The US Department of States (DOS) has added a question to both the immigrant visa application (DS-260) and non-immigrant visa application (DS-160) asking for the applicant’s social media information.  Specifically, the form asks which social media platforms the applicant has used in the last five years and provides a dropdown with a list of options.  Once the platform is selected, the form requires the applicant provide his/her username or handle for the social media account.  The US DOS will review any social media the applicant uses to collaborate, share information, and interact with others in an effort to heighten security and further vet applicants for entrance to the US.