In a recent case highlighting the growing scrutiny of social media in US visa applications, an Indian applicant was refused an F-1 student visa after failing to disclose their Reddit account during the interview process. Although the applicant’s Reddit profile was public and contained no offensive content, their visa interview ended with a temporary refusal via a 221(g) form, which requires the applicant to provide additional information or comply with certain conditions before their visa can be reconsidered.
The incident surfaced on a popular visa-related subreddit, where the applicant explained that during their interview, the visa officer expressed concern that the Reddit account had not been listed on their DS-160 form—the mandatory online visa application—despite being public. “She mentioned that the account was not visible while it was an open account,” the applicant noted, raising fears that a technical glitch during verification might negatively impact their application. At the conclusion of the interview, the officer issued a 221(g) slip requesting that the applicant make all social media profiles fully public for further screening.
What a 221(g) Slip Means for Visa Applicants
A 221(g) form does not constitute an outright visa denial. Instead, it signifies temporary refusal or pending processing, pending additional information or clarification. Applicants are encouraged to comply promptly with requests for documentation or changes, such as updating social media privacy settings to public. Failure to comply may result in permanent denial. In this case, the applicant was specifically asked to make all social media accounts public to facilitate a thorough vetting process.
Increased Social Media Screening for F, M, and J Visas
This case reflects a broader policy shift by the US State Department. As of June 23, 2025, all applicants for F (student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) non-immigrant visas are required to make their social media profiles public. The directive aims to enable immigration authorities to perform more effective background checks by reviewing digital footprints more comprehensively.
According to the US Embassy’s notification, this policy is intended to “facilitate vetting necessary to establish identity and admissibility to the United States under US law.” The statement emphasized that a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and that visa holders are subject to ongoing scrutiny even after obtaining clearance. Visa revocation remains a possibility if applicants are found to violate US laws or regulations post-issuance.
Background: Social Media Vetting Since 2019
Although the requirement for social media account disclosure has technically existed since 2019, recent announcements signal an intensification of enforcement and monitoring. The Biden administration—and earlier, the Trump administration—has progressively expanded immigration scrutiny centered on digital activity. This move coincides with increased border enforcement measures and campaigns by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to identify and detain unauthorized immigrants.
Increased social media vetting represents a tool for US authorities seeking to prevent visa misuse, potential security risks, or immigration violations. However, the policy has also sparked concerns among applicants who fear technical errors, privacy violations, and the risk of being unfairly denied due to misunderstandings or software glitches.
Concerns and Implications for Applicants
The Reddit user’s experience underscores potential challenges applicants face with the new policies. The user expressed worries about “technical issues” that could misrepresent their account status during checks and lead to visa denial despite full compliance.
Prospective visa holders are now advised to review and update privacy settings across all social media platforms, including lesser-known accounts like Reddit, to ensure transparency during US visa application interviews. Failure to do so could result in delays, requests for additional information, or even refusals.
As social media continues to play a growing role in immigration adjudication, applicants worldwide are urged to stay informed about policy updates and be prepared for increasingly detailed vetting procedures during the visa application process.
