Times are changing and as such, procedures to travel abroad are equally changing. Speaking of change in relation to traveling, it’s quite interesting to know that if you own a social media account and have plans of travelling abroad, you should be mindful of what you post and your use of social media. In fact, not just social media, but more.
Why?
Well, United States (USA) now demands social media details from VISA Applicants.
What this means is, if you have plans of travelling to the United States and you intend applying for VISA, you will most likely be required to share your social media details and others.
The state department regulations say people will have to submit social media names and five years worth of email addresses and phone numbers. While this wouldn’t apply to everyone, it will apply to most persons.
Prior to this time, only applicants who needed additional vetting–such as people who had been to parts of the world controlled by terrorist groups, would need to hand over their social media details and 5 years worth of email addresses and phone numbers.
“We are constantly working to find mechanisms to improve our screening processes to protect US citizens, while supporting legitimate travel to the United States,” the department reportedly said.
This new development was first proposed in March, 2018.
At the time, the American Civil Liberties Union – a civil rights group – said there is “no evidence that such social media monitoring is effective or fair”, and said it would cause people to self-censor themselves online. BBC Reports.
What Does This Mean For You?
Well, if you have plans of traveling out of your current location to the United States, you should be mindful of the kind of stuffs you post online. The kinda emails you send as well as phone conversations and sort.
The United States is trying to protect its citizens even more. As such, they bring forth these scrutinizing process.
At this point, you may want to go check your social media accounts to be sure you haven’t in anyway, preach racism, war or any thing that’s in support of social vices.
If you have good grounds with the use of social media as well as maintain good conversations and sort, you shouldn’t be afraid. If otherwise, begin to clear them and equally change your mindset.
Good luck!
