US VISA CRACKDOWN: Ugandans Applying Must Open Social Media, Avoid Birth Tourism

The U.S. Embassy in Uganda has issued a series of public advisories aimed at reinforcing visa compliance and clarifying immigration rules for Ugandans seeking to travel to or currently residing in the United States.

According to the Embassy’s recent updates—shared via official social media platforms—warn against common visa violations that could jeopardize future travel plans or result in permanent ineligibility.

Key Messages for Students

One of the primary targets of the advisory is Ugandan students studying in the U.S. The Embassy emphasized that abandoning academic programs, skipping classes, or dropping out without informing school authorities can lead to the revocation of student visas (F, M, or J categories).

“Your visa is directly tied to your academic status,” the advisory states. “Any deviation from your program without proper communication could make you ineligible for future visas.”

New Social Media Policy for Visa Applicants

The Embassy announced that all applicants for student visas must ensure that their social media accounts are set to public.

This requirement, it says, is to help consular officers verify the applicant’s identity and assess admissibility as mandated by U.S. law. Failure to comply with this provision or falsifying information may lead to immediate visa denial.

“Be honest, double check your application, and make sure everything is accurate before submitting!” the advisory urges.

Crackdown on ‘Birth Tourism’

Another warning was directed at visa holders suspected of traveling to the U.S. to give birth so their children obtain American citizenship, a practice often referred to as “birth tourism.”

The Embassy made it clear that such travel is prohibited under U.S. immigration policy.

“If consular officers believe this is your intent, your visa will be denied,” the message reads, citing numerous cases where Ugandan parents with tourist visas traveled to deliver babies in the U.S., often relying on U.S. government healthcare.

Such individuals may face visa renewal bans in the future.

Consequences of Overstaying

The Embassy also reminded all visa holders that overstaying a visa is a serious violation that could lead to a permanent ban from entering the United States.

“Consular officers have full access to your immigration history,” the statement emphasized.

“There is no such thing as an ‘honest mistake’—it is your responsibility to use your visa correctly.”

These advisories come amid growing scrutiny of visa misuse and immigration violations globally.

The U.S. Embassy’s proactive communication is intended to promote transparency and help Ugandans avoid costly mistakes that could hinder academic, professional, or family-related travel plans.