The United States Embassy in Harare has introduced a new requirement for individuals applying for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas: applicants must now make their personal social media accounts publicly viewable.
These visa categories are designed for international students, vocational trainees, and participants in cultural or educational exchange programs seeking temporary entry into the U.S.
In an official statement shared on Thursday via the embassy’s social media platforms, the directive was linked to enhanced national security protocols.
“Each visa decision is ultimately a matter of national security,” the embassy noted.
“Effective immediately, all F, M, and J visa applicants are asked to change the privacy settings of their personal social media accounts to ‘public’ to support the vetting process needed to verify identity and eligibility for entry into the United States.”
This updated policy forms part of broader efforts by U.S. immigration authorities to strengthen background checks and ensure that nonimmigrant visa holders follow the specific terms of their entry.
Earlier this month, the embassy also issued a separate advisory cautioning applicants against seeking U.S. visas with the intent to give birth in the country—a practice often linked to attempts to gain birthright citizenship for children. The embassy warned that consular officers may reject applications if they suspect such motives.
Officials further emphasized that any misuse of visas—especially when it involves access to public assistance—can result in application denial or future bans from entering the U.S.
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