Antiguans and Barbudans applying for US visas must now submit their social media handles as part of tighter security measures.

The US Embassy in Bridgetown confirmed the updated rule applies to all non-immigrant visa applicants, requiring disclosure of usernames used over the past five years.

Applicants for student and exchange visitor visas — including F, M, and J categories — are also advised to make their accounts public to assist with identity verification.

Officials warn that failing to provide this information could lead to visa denial or affect future applications.

The policy revives a vetting process first introduced in 2019, aimed at strengthening national security by screening applicants’ online activities.