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630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

In October 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) began implementing updated guidance allowing adjudicators to review an applicant’s publicly available social media activity when evaluating certain immigration benefits. This policy aligns with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) broader expansion of “open-source review,” which authorizes officers to consider online posts, affiliations, or statements when determining whether an individual demonstrates the character, intent, and eligibility required for an immigration benefit.

While USCIS has long reserved the right to verify applicant information, this guidance represents a more formalized and active approach. For immigrants and nonimmigrants alike, the message is clear: what you post online can now affect your immigration future.

Immigration Case New Digital

How USCIS Uses Social Media in Adjudications

The updated policy authorizes USCIS officers to review publicly available information, including posts, photos, and comments on social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn.

This information may be used to:

  • Verify the accuracy of statements made in immigration applications or interviews.
  • Identify potential inconsistencies between an applicant’s social media presence and the information provided to USCIS.
  • Evaluate discretionary factors, such as moral character, intent, or ideological beliefs that may bear on eligibility.
  • Support credibility determinations in cases involving fraud, misrepresentation, or national security concerns.

This policy applies broadly to many immigration benefits, including:

  • Naturalization and citizenship applications (where character and loyalty are key factors).
  • Adjustment of status and visa applications, where discretion is required.
  • Student, employment-based, or humanitarian filings, when intent or affiliations are in question.

Why the Policy Matters for Applicants

For many applicants, social media has long been viewed as a personal space; however, in today’s regulatory environment, it serves as a public record of their conduct and beliefs. USCIS officers are not permitted to demand passwords or access private accounts; however, they may view any publicly visible information without special permission. Even casual posts can raise red flags if they appear inconsistent with official statements or suggest conduct contrary to U.S. laws or values.

Examples include:

  • Posts contradicting travel or employment information listed on an application.
  • Affiliations with groups promoting violence, hate, or anti-American ideologies.
  • Online comments or photos suggesting behavior inconsistent with moral character requirements.

Applicants should therefore view their digital presence as part of their case file. A careful review, either before filing or with legal guidance, can help prevent misunderstandings that might delay or harm an application.

Protecting Yourself in the Age of Digital Scrutiny

Being transparent, truthful, and consistent across all filings and public platforms is the best protection against potential risks.

Before applying for any immigration benefit:

  • Review your public profiles and delete outdated or inaccurate information.
  • Avoid sharing controversial or misleading content that could be taken out of context.
  • Do not fabricate information to align with perceived expectations—honesty is always the safest strategy.
  • Work with an immigration attorney who can identify potential risks in your application or online presence.

Your Trusted Immigration Resource in Illinois

At Kasturi Law, our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, represents clients throughout Illinois, including those in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and the surrounding cities. Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes.

Contact our immigration law firm today to schedule a consultation that suits your needs.