India has formally responded to the updated visa screening guidelines issued by the U.S. Embassy, which mandate the disclosure of all social media identifiers used over the past five years on visa application forms.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing media queries on the matter, acknowledged that visa and immigration decisions are sovereign matters. However, he stressed that the interests of Indian nationals must be protected.
“Visa and immigration matters pertain to sovereign functions of any country. But, we have seen the guidelines issued by the US Embassy, providing details of social media identifiers in visa applications,” said Jaiswal.
He further emphasized India’s ongoing diplomatic engagement with the United States on a wide range of mobility and consular matters, ensuring fairness in treatment.
“It is our belief that all visa applications of Indian nationals should be treated on the basis of merit. We remain engaged with the US side on all mobility issues and consular issues to ensure that the legitimate interests of Indian nationals are safeguarded,” he added.
The remarks come amid growing concern among visa seekers following the U.S. administration's intensified scrutiny of digital footprints, especially for non-immigrant visas like F, M, and J categories. The U.S. Embassy in India recently advised all applicants to make their social media accounts public for background checks.
