The United States government is considering collecting social media data from immigrants applying for immigration benefits. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an official statement in the Federal Register this Wednesday, outlining the proposal and initiating a 60-day public comment period before its implementation.
This controversial measure stems from Executive Order 14161, “Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National and Public Safety Threats,” signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. The order mandates the establishment of uniform investigative standards to ensure that immigration applicants do not pose a threat to public or national security.
What Does This Measure Entail?
USCIS may require applicants to provide their social media handles and the platforms they use. This information would be used to verify the immigrant's identity, detect potential inconsistencies in applications, and prevent immigration fraud.
Immigration attorney José Guerrero explained to Univision that "the aim is to create a robust and uniform system to investigate all individuals applying for an immigration benefit. The government will require them to disclose their social media to understand who this person is and what their connections are,” he stated.
Social Media Review and Implications for Applicants
If approved, USCIS could examine social media posts, interactions, and connections to assess whether the information provided in the application aligns with the immigrant's online activity. Areas that might raise flags include:
- Contradictory statements about their immigration status.
- Possible links to criminal or extremist organizations.
- Expressions of hate speech or content that could pose a security risk.
- Discrepancies in declared family or employment relationships.
This measure would affect millions of immigrants submitting forms such as:
- N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- I-485 (Green Card Application)
- I-589 (Asylum Application)
- I-131 (Travel Document)
- Other forms related to immigration benefits
Various civil rights groups have voiced concerns over this initiative, arguing that it could restrict free speech and compromise immigrants' privacy. They fear that social media monitoring could lead to arbitrary interpretations and unjustly impact certain applicants.
USCIS has indicated that public feedback will be crucial in determining how the measure is implemented. Over the next two months, interested parties can submit their opinions to the Federal Register. Following the consultation period, the government will make a final decision on the collection of social media data for immigration processes.
Frequently Asked Questions About USCIS Social Media Review
What will USCIS do with social media information?
USCIS plans to use social media information to verify identities, check for inconsistencies, and prevent fraud in immigration applications.
Who will be affected by this measure?
The measure would impact immigrants applying for various benefits, such as naturalization, green cards, asylum, and travel documents.
How can the public express their opinions on this proposal?
The public can submit comments and feedback to the Federal Register during the 60-day comment period.