This archive report was first published on 14 September 2019.
On September 14, 2019, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice in the Federal Register proposing to collect social media information from immigrants applying for various benefits, including citizenship and green cards through marriage.
The proposed rule would require applicants to provide their social media information from the last five years as part of the application process. According to the notice, this information is deemed essential for identity verification, immigration, and national security vetting.
The list of 19 social media platforms included in the proposal includes Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Reddit, Flickr, Tumblr, and Pinterest.
As part of the proposal, DHS is collecting public comment until November 4, 2019. If approved, application forms will be updated to include a request for social media information.
