When applying for permanent resident status (green card) through adjustment of status or through an application for an immigrant visa, you might be wondering how deep the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or the Department of State dive into your life to investigate your history and assess your eligibility. Not shockingly, in our technology-driven world, social media can significantly impact visa statuses and immigration cases. This is also true with petitions to remove the conditions on residence and applications for U.S. citizenship, as well as many other types of applications for immigration benefits.
The U.S. government is relying on social media screening more and more during the vetting process to gather extensive information about you as an applicant. Your social media profiles and activities can offer insights into your interests, associations, and potential security concerns.
Working with an experienced California immigration attorney can help you understand the importance of maintaining proper “social media etiquette.” This ensures your social media presence does not negatively influence your immigration status.
How Does The USCIS Monitor Social Media?
As of 2019, the Department of State requires anyone applying for U.S. visas, such as forms DS-160 and DS-260, to input their social media handles. This requirement essentially allows the government to view your social media activity to verify your identity and confirm that your online presence aligns with the information you provided in your application.
According to U.S. immigration law, authorities may inspect the photos, videos, statuses, and comments you post publicly on social media platforms. This scrutiny serves to determine your character and to analyze any suspicious activity that might pose a threat to the U.S.
Other details authorities may be looking for when delving into your online presence include:
- English proficiency. Certain visa categories require language proficiency. Therefore, immigration officials may examine your writing style and interactions to assess your proficiency in English.
- Intentions and future plans. Immigration officials want to understand your reasons for moving to the U.S., your intended duration of stay, and how you hope to contribute to society. Posts related to employment opportunities, educational aspirations, or connections with friends and family in the U.S. could provide insights into your intentions and plans.
- Evidence of criminal activity. Government agencies scan your social media profiles to ensure you have no ties to terrorist organizations and no history of illegal activity. Detection of any indications of criminal behavior can negatively impact or invalidate your eligibility for visa or immigration status.
Social Media Tips For Applicants
If you are navigating the visa or immigration process, here are ways you can use social media safely and adjust your profiles to maintain some privacy.
- Switch your accounts from public to private. This will prevent certain personal information from being shared publicly.
- Think before you post. Be mindful of what you share and check your posts regularly to make sure they do not raise any red flags.
- Avoid posting highly sensitive or controversial content (such as politics or illegal activity) that could be misinterpreted or negatively impact your application.
- Avoid engaging in online arguments. Heated debates, particularly about controversial topics, could reflect negatively on your character and put your application at risk.
- Make sure the information you share online aligns with the information you submitted in your application. Any discrepancies can raise concerns.
- Get personalized advice on managing your social media during the application process from an immigration lawyer (Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area).
Reach Out To a California Immigration Law Firm
At Reeves Immigration Law Group, we take pride in our role in doing everything we can to help each individual achieve their immigration goals. Whether you are applying for an H-4 visa for a family member or seeking to enter the green card lottery, our experienced Los Angeles and San Francisco immigration lawyers will support you through every step of the process.
Fill out our contact form today to discuss your family’s immigration needs with a California immigration lawyer. Our team of immigration attorneys in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Concord are standing by to help.
