Malaysians applying for United States visas — including for studies, work or tourism — will now be required to make their social media accounts public, following a new regulation implemented by the US government.
This policy change, which has drawn mixed reactions from the public, particularly students, was confirmed by the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
The regulation mandates that visa applicants provide a list of their social media handles and ensure that their profiles are set to public visibility, enabling US immigration authorities to review the content as part of the vetting process.
According to the US Embassy, the rule is aimed at enhancing national security by allowing officials to identify any potential threats through digital activity. Applicants who fail to comply may risk delays or even rejections of their visa applications.
The move has raised concerns among Malaysian students planning to pursue their higher education in the United States. Many worry that their online privacy is being compromised, and some are unsure about what types of posts could potentially affect their visa eligibility. Despite these concerns, the US Embassy maintains that the process is part of standard background checks and is not intended to intrude on personal freedoms.
“Applicants are advised to ensure their public content reflects truthful and appropriate information. Private profiles or refusal to disclose social media may be viewed unfavourably,” the Embassy stated.
Previously, applicants were already required to list the social media platforms they used, but there was no obligation to make the profiles publicly accessible. With this latest update, consular officers will have direct access to assess a person’s public digital footprint.
This change applies to a broad range of visa categories, including student visas (F and M types), exchange visitor visas (J type), and non-immigrant travel visas (B type). It remains unclear if this requirement will extend to immigrant visa applicants in the near future.
While the policy is part of the US government’s effort to improve border security and screening processes, it has inevitably sparked debate about personal privacy and digital rights in an increasingly connected world.
Prospective applicants are advised to review their social media accounts carefully before beginning the visa application process.
