The US government has issued a stern warning to Kenyan nationals applying for American visas, cautioning them that failure to disclose their social media handles could result in denial of entry and future ineligibility.
In a public advisory released on Friday, the US Embassy in Nairobi stressed that all visa applicants must submit accurate and complete social media information covering the past five years.
“Visa applicants are required to list all social media usernames or handles for every platform they have used in the past five years on the DS-160 visa application form,” the Embassy declared.
The notice reminded applicants that any omission, whether deliberate or not, may carry serious consequences.
“Omitting social media information on your application could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future US visas,” the Embassy added.
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Applicants are also expected to verify the accuracy of all personal details before signing and submitting the application form.
These include one’s email address, telephone number, and social media handles.
While the requirement demands disclosure of usernames, it does not extend to passwords, and consular officers are not authorised to alter social media accounts.
Although social media screening has been part of the visa process since 2019, officials noted that scrutiny has intensified since President Donald Trump assumed office.
The administration’s policy direction has resulted in tighter enforcement, particularly around digital footprints, as part of broader efforts to vet foreign visitors more rigorously.
The Embassy’s statement serves as a reminder to prospective travellers that the US immigration process now takes online activity seriously, and applicants must ensure total transparency if they hope to secure a visa.
For many, this means revisiting their digital presence before applying.
The US government maintains that honesty and completeness in disclosure will remain a central criterion in visa eligibility assessments moving forward.
