The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made it clear: your social media activity can now impact your chances of getting or keeping a US visa. This includes what you post or support on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others.

According to the new rule, if your social media content shows support for groups that the US has officially labeled as terrorist organizations, your visa may be denied or revoked. This applies to both new visa applications and existing visa holders.

What Kind of Posts Can Lead to US Visa Issues?

The US immigration authorities say they will look at posts that show support for anti-Semitic terrorism or groups such as :

  • Hamas
  • Hezbollah
  • Houthi rebels

    These organizations are considered terrorist groups by the US government. If your online activity includes sharing, liking, or promoting posts related to these groups or their causes, it could be seen as a red flag by immigration officials.

    In a statement, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), said:

    “The United States will not tolerate individuals who support terrorism from around the world. We are under no obligation to let them enter or stay in the country.”

    Policy Applies Immediately

    This new policy is already in effect. It applies to:

  • Student visa applicants
  • Green Card applicants
  • People already living in the US on non-citizen visas

    • It means immigration officers can now review your public social media activity as part of your application process.

    Hundreds of Student Visas Already Revoked

    The announcement follows recent reports that the US has already canceled the visas of hundreds of international students. According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, around 300 visas have been revoked recently, and the process is ongoing.

    Rubio stated that non-US citizens don’t have the same rights as US citizens when it comes to visa approval. He emphasized that it’s up to immigration authorities — not judges — to decide who is allowed into the country.

    What This Means for You

    If you’re planning to study, work, or live in the US, it’s now more important than ever to be mindful of what you share on social media. Even posts from the past may be reviewed.

    To stay on the safe side :

  • Avoid engaging with or promoting any content tied to banned or extremist groups.
  • Review your old posts and remove anything that could be misinterpreted.
  • Remember that public posts can be viewed and assessed by immigration officers.

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