DHS to Screen Social Media Activity

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin considering certain social media activity when reviewing immigration benefit applications. 

This policy is effective immediately.

What Is Changing?

USCIS may consider social media content as part of its discretionary review process. This includes content that reflects:

• Antisemitic views, statements, or behavior
• Support for antisemitic terrorism or terrorist organizations
• Endorsement of violent antisemitic ideologies
• Physical harassment of Jewish individuals
• Affiliation with institutions or groups linked to antisemitic activity

Content that falls into these categories may be treated as a negative factor when USCIS evaluates an application.

Who May Be Affected?

This policy applies to nonimmigrants, including individuals in F and J status, as well as other visa categories.

What Types of Applications Could Be Impacted?

USCIS may consider social media activity when reviewing discretionary benefit requests, including:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT
• Change of status applications
• Reinstatement requests
• Lawful Permanent Residence (Green Card) applications
• Other benefits subject to discretionary review

What This Means for You

• Your social media may be reviewed
  USCIS may examine publicly available content, including posts, shares, likes, and group affiliations.
• Discretionary decisions matter
  Many immigration benefits are not automatic. USCIS officers may consider a range of factors when making a decision.
• Past and current content may be considered
  Activity on your social media accounts—both recent and older posts—may be reviewed.

Important Reminder

You are responsible for the content you share online. Be mindful that public activity may be reviewed as part of an immigration application.