The United States Embassy in Ghana has announced a significant new policy requiring all student visa applicants to make their social media accounts public prior to their visa interviews. This directive is part of an enhanced vetting process aimed at scrutinizing the online presence of applicants.
Erik Fertik, the Consul General at the US Embassy in Accra, revealed this updated requirement during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, June 24, 2025. He outlined the changes, stating, “Under the new policy, we are engaged in enhanced vetting of the social media and online presence of all student visa applicants. That’s why we are telling student visa applicants that they must set their social media profiles to public before they come in for their interview.”
Enhanced Transparency and Online Behavior Scrutiny
Fertik clarified that while social media screening has always been a component of the vetting process, this new approach places a greater emphasis on transparency and a deeper examination of applicants’ online behavior. He indicated that this measure helps the embassy to gain a more comprehensive understanding of applicants and to safeguard the integrity of the visa process.
The Consul General also noted that content deemed problematic, or contrary to US law or interests, could potentially affect the outcome of a visa application. However, he emphasized that each case is evaluated individually, with officers taking a broad view of an applicant’s background and circumstances.
Application Process Largely Unchanged, But Online Conduct Matters
Aside from this new social media requirement, Fertik confirmed that the core visa application process largely remains unchanged. Applicants will still be required to attend interviews and respond to questions regarding their academic plans and financial preparedness to study in the United States.
This new directive from the US Embassy highlights the increasing role that digital activities and online footprints play in global visa processing and security screening procedures. It underscores the importance for aspiring students to be mindful of their public online presence as part of their visa application journey.
Source: http://thepressradio.com
