The United States have defended the decision to collect social media identities from nearly everyone who is seeking entry into the US, but cited Caribbean people should not fear the new rule.
“Social media wasn’t so prevalent back when these documents were created…so now the government wants to update and include additional information to be with the times,” said Jeremiah Knight, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the US Embassy in Jamaica, adding that the aim is to have the visa forms align with technological advances.
To list all social media used in past 5 years
The proposal, if approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), would require most immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants to list all social media identities they have used in the past five years. It will be used to vet and identify them and could affect an estimated 15 million people yearly.
Extreme vetting
Immigration officials said the proposals support President Donald Trump’s promise to institute “extreme vetting” of foreigners entering the United States to prevent terrorism.
US citizens will have 60 days from March 30 to comment on the proposal. Knight said following the 60 days period, the comments or recommendations will be submitted to OMB for any issues to be addressed with another 30 days being allocated to deal with those issues.
Washington also increasing security checks
Knight, speaking on a television program, said Washington is also increasing its security checks. “Some people on social media fill it with particular organizations that might be of some concern, or their comments raise awareness to government entities, so they want to just do some balances before people (apply) for immigrant and non-immigrant visas.”
He said the processing time of visa applications will not be affected due to the increased information required and urged applicants to “be honest and complete” with the document.
Previously, under rules instituted last May, consular officials were instructed to collect social media identifiers only when they determined that such information is required to confirm identity or conduct more rigorous national security vetting.
The American Civil Liberties Union expressed concern, saying the move would have a “chilling” effect on freedom of speech and association.
