[Final] Socia Media GC Supporting Statement-20251120

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SUPPORTING STATEMENT FOR

Generic Clearance for the Collection of Social Media Identifier(s) on Immigration Forms”

OMB Control No. 1615-NEW

COLLECTION INSTRUMENT(S): GC-2025-0003; USCIS Forms N-400; I-131; I-192; I-485; I-589; I-590; I-730; I-751; and I-829

A. Justification

1. Explain the circumstances that make the collection of information necessary. Identify any legal or administrative requirements that necessitate the collection. Attach a copy of the appropriate section of each statute and regulation mandating or authorizing the collection of information.

Executive Order (EO) 14161, “Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats” directs implementation of uniform vetting standards and necessitates the collection of all information necessary for a rigorous vetting and screening of all grounds of inadmissibility or bases for the denial of immigration-related benefits. See 90 FR 8451 (Jan. 20, 2025). In a review of information collected for admission and benefit decisions, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) identified the need to collect social media identifiers (“handles”) and associated social media platforms from applicants, petitioners, and beneficiaries (“applicants”) to help enable and inform identity verification, national security screening and vetting, and related inspections.¹ Currently, USCIS is only authorized to view publicly available information that can be viewed by all members of the site. It is not permitted to view information that may be protected by an individual’s use of a platform’s privacy settings.

Consistent with the requirements for uniform vetting standards described in EO 14161, USCIS intends to collect standard data from applicants on immigration forms and information collection systems. This data will be collected on certain applications and petitions for immigration-related benefits.²

This collection of information is necessary to enable USCIS to assess an alien’s eligibility to receive an immigration-related benefit. USCIS currently uses publicly available social media information to support its vetting and adjudication programs, and to supplement other information and tools that USCIS trained personnel regularly use in the performance of their duties.³ This process includes a labor-intensive step to validate that the identified social media is correctly associated with the applicant. The collection of applicants’ social media identifiers and associated platforms will assist USCIS by reducing the time needed to validate the attribution of the publicly-available posted information to the applicant and prevent mis-associations. It will provide trained USCIS adjudication personnel with more timely visibility of the publicly available information on the platforms provided by the applicant.

Social media may help distinguish individuals of concern from applicants whose information substantiates their eligibility for an immigration benefit. Social media can help provide positive, confirmatory information to verify identity and support a beneficiary’s application, petition, or claims. It can also be used to help identify potential deception, fraud, or previously unidentified national security or law enforcement concerns, such as when criminals and terrorists have provided otherwise unavailable information via social media, that could identify their intentions, including support for terrorist organizations and allow trained adjudicators the opportunity to develop lines of questioning.

USCIS will collect social media user identifications (also known as usernames, identifiers, or “handles”) and associated social media platforms used by an applicant during the past five years through certain immigration collection instruments and for USCIS systems identified in this supporting statement.⁴ These platforms were identified in consultation with U.S. Government screening partners and will evolve as new social media platforms are created. USCIS is seeking this information, covering the previous five-year period, to assist with identity verification, and consistency with other U.S. Government data collections for immigrant and non-immigrant visas. DHS will not collect social media passwords. USCIS personnel will review information on social media platforms in a manner consistent with the privacy settings the applicant has chosen to adopt for those platforms. Only that information which the account holder has allowed to be shared publicly will be viewable by USCIS.

USCIS is committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct throughout the Department.  Existing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy prohibits the consideration of race or ethnicity in our investigation, screening, and enforcement activities in all but the most exceptional instances, such as when an individual has asserted persecution based on race, religion or political affiliation. This policy is reaffirmed in manuals, policies, directives, and guidelines.

USCIS ensures its employees have the knowledge and tools needed to administer the lawful immigration system with professionalism. USCIS provides accessible, reliable, and accurate guidance and information about its public services. USCIS administers the nation’s lawful immigration system, safeguarding its integrity and promise by efficiently and fairly adjudicating requests for immigration benefits while protecting Americans, securing the homeland, and honoring our values.

Consistent with the requirements of the Privacy Act, USCIS does not maintain records “describing how any [citizen of the United States or alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence] exercises rights guaranteed by the First Amendment, unless expressly authorized by statute or by the individual about whom the record is maintained or unless pertinent to and within the scope of an authorized law enforcement activity.”  5 U.S.C. § 552a(e)(7).

For USCIS, the proposed information collection from social media information is not “mandatory” in the sense that an application will be denied or rejected based solely on the lack of a response. USCIS will continue to adjudicate a form where social media information is not provided, but failure to provide the requested data may either delay or make it impossible for USCIS to determine an individual’s eligibility for the requested benefit.

Applicants for USCIS benefits must certify on the respective forms that the information submitted is true and correct to the best of the applicant’s knowledge and belief and further authorizes USCIS to use information provided to help USCIS determine eligibility for the immigration request made and or to enforce the U.S. immigration laws.

USCIS will update its forms and systems to collect information, as outlined in this supporting statement, from individuals who seek admission or other benefits when that information is not already collected. These questions are representative of the data USCIS will collect. However, the wording in the forms may vary based on the needs of the information collection, but are written to elicit the same response. The information to be collected is as follows:

1. Provide if you had or used a social media account in the past five (5) years.

2. Provide total number of social media accounts.

3. Enter information associated with your online social media presence over the past five (5) years:

• Provider(s)/Platform(s);

• Social Media Identifier(s), Username(s), Handle(s), Alias(es); and

• Identify if the social media account is a Personal, Business, or Organization account.

The forms will allow the applicant to provide as many platforms and identifiers as necessary. The request for social media platforms, providers, and websites will focus on those that the individual uses to collaborate, share information and interact with others.⁵ The platforms listed may be updated by the Department by adding or removing platforms, consistent with the uses described in this supporting statement.

USCIS may collect this information pursuant to the following statutory and regulatory authorities, as a component of DHS, to collect social media information from applicants for immigration benefits:

• 8 C.F.R §§ 204.5(m)(12) and 214.2(r)(16) provide that, in the context of adjudicating an immigrant or nonimmigrant religious worker petition, USCIS may verify the supporting evidence submitted by the petitioner “through any means determined appropriate by USCIS,” including by “review of any other records that the USCIS considers pertinent to the integrity of the organization” with which the religious worker is affiliated.

• 8 C.F.R. § 103.2(a)(1) requires that every benefit request be executed and filed in accordance with the form instructions and clarifies that “such instructions are incorporated into the regulations requiring its submission.”⁶

In addition, USCIS has the following statutory and regulatory authorities to collect additional biographic data pertaining to social media, on the following forms:

• N-400, Application for Naturalization: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA § 337,8 U.S.C. § 1448; INA § 310, 8 U.S.C. § 1421; 8 CFR § 316.4 and 8 CFR §316.10.

• I-131, Application for Travel Document: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA §§ 103, 208, 212, 223 and 244, 8 U.S.C. §§ 1103, 1158, 1182, 1203 and 1204; 8 CFR §§ 103.2(a) and (e); 8 CFR § 208.6; 8 CFR § 244.16.

• I-192, Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA § 212, 8 U.S.C. § 1182.

• I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust status: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA Section 245 and 8 CFR 245.1 et seq.; INA Section 245A and 8 CFR 245(a).1 et seq.; INA Section 209 and 8 CFR 209.1 et seq.; Section 1059 of Public Law 109-163, as amended by Public Law 110-36; Section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, as amended by section 602(b)(9) of Public Law 111-8; Section 602(b) of Public Law 111-8; INA Section 249 and 8 CFR 249.1 et seq; INA Section 291; INA Section 204(b); INA Section 204(e); INA Section 212(a)(5)(A); INA Section 212(a)(4); INA Section 204(j); Section 902 of Public Law 105-277 (HRIFA) .

• I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA §§ 101(a)(42), 208(a) and (b), and 241(b)(3); 8 U.S.C. §§ 1101(a)(42), 1158(a) 1231(b)(3), 8 CFR §§ 208.6, 208.16, 208.17, 208.18, 1208.6, 1208.16, 1208.17, and 1208.18.

• I-590, Registration for Classification as Refugee: This information collection is authorized by INA § 101(a)(42), 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(42); INA § 207, 8 U.S.C. § 1157.

• I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition: This information collection is authorized by INA §§ 207(c)(2), and 208(c), 8 U.S.C. 1157 and 1158.

• I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA § 216, 8 U.S.C. 1186(a); 8 CFR Part 216.

• I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status: Collection of data through this form is authorized by INA §§ 203(b)(5) and 216(a) 8 U.S.C. §§ 1153and § 1186(b).

DHS Authorities and Privacy Policies:

DHS has additional statutory and regulatory authorities to secure the homeland and prevent terrorism, in addition to those cited above for USCIS. These include:

• The Homeland Security Act, 2002, P.L. 107-296;

• The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (IRTPA) of 2004, P.L. 108-458;

• Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (“The 9/11 Act”), P.L. 110-53;

• The Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended; and

• DHS Delegation 15002 Delegation to the Director of US. Citizenship and Immigration Services to Conduct Certain Law Enforcement Activities, dated January, 2017.

DHS will collect this information for identity verification, national security screening, vetting, inspection, and law enforcement purposes. Questions included on certain DHS application forms, petitions, and intake systems are incorporated to ensure national security screening and vetting, as per the Executive Order 14161, to the extent they are relevant to the alien’s admissibility to the United States and/or eligibility for the immigration benefit requested. DHS does not intend to use social media information to reject or deny a request unless the information relates to either the codified statutory and regulatory eligibility requirements for the particular benefit or the authority to deny based on discretion.

DHS exercises care when reviewing and/or collecting content that is protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, as it specifically protects the free exercise of religion, freedom of speech, and the freedom of the press. Information that is protected by the First Amendment may be considered when it could reasonably give rise to legitimate concerns relating to fraud, national security, public safety, benefits integrity, eligibility for benefits, and/or grounds of inadmissibility. Even where the collection of content protected by the First Amendment may be in furtherance of a DHS equity, its capture will be narrowly tailored to the underlying inquiry. This type of information will be collected only if it is relevant to the case, and for no other reason.

DHS also considers the impact of other constitutional principles when using social media in furtherance of its mission. For example, under general Fourth Amendment principles, “[w]hat a person knowingly exposes to the public… is not a subject of Fourth Amendment protection.”⁷

In addition to the DHS component-specific authorities previously cited, DHS components must also adhere to a DHS Directive 110-01 “Privacy Policy for Operational Use of Social Media,” which defines the authorized use of social media to collect personally identifiable information for the purpose of enhancing situational awareness, investigating an individual in a criminal, civil, or administrative context, making a benefit determination about a person, making a personnel determination about a Department employee, making a suitability determination about a prospective Department employee, or for any other official Department purpose that has the potential to affect the rights, privileges, or benefits of an individual.

This policy also requires DHS Operational Components to receive approval from the DHS Privacy Office regarding the privacy implications of any planned operational use of social media to ensure that it is compliant with Departmental privacy policies and standards.⁸ DHS employees, who are permitted and trained to utilize social media for operational purposes during the performance of their duties, must adhere to DHS privacy policies, as determined by the Chief Privacy Officer.

DHS maintains a framework of safeguards, training, and policies for use of social media in vetting programs and to ensure preservation of privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties. When adjudicating benefits, the use of social media is governed by strict privacy provisions, use limitations, and in adherence with all constitutionally protected rights and freedoms.⁹ DHS Oversight Offices, to include the Office of General Counsel, the Privacy Office, and the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, each review aspects of DHS policies regarding the use of social media information.  They regularly advise programs on best practices and methods for ensuring legal and policy compliance.  In addition, the Privacy Office reviews and must approve guidelines customized to each program’s specific operational use of social media before implementation.

2. Indicate how, by whom, and for what purpose the information is to be used. Except for a new collection, indicate the actual use the agency has made of the information received from the current collection.

When adjudicating immigrant benefits, USCIS officers and analysts examine the totality of information available to them before granting or denying the benefit. USCIS considers the requested information – social media platforms used and associated handles – to be biographic data, which, in general, would not be used as the sole basis for the denial or granting of any benefit, with the exception of certain USCIS discretionary overseas adjudications.

Information used to adjudicate these benefit applications and petitions includes, but is not limited to, searches of Intelligence Community (IC), law enforcement, and immigration databases (both internal and external to USCIS); interviews, when appropriate; and collaboration with others federal offices and agencies investigating or otherwise interested in the applicant. Social media information will be used as an additional source of information during the adjudication of benefits, to confirm identity, corroborate information provided by the applicant, and address any issues related to the application or petition for a USCIS benefit.

Social media information may be shared with other agencies which have a need to know the information to carry out their national security, law enforcement, immigration, or other homeland security functions. Information sharing with agencies outside USCIS will abide by information sharing agreements between the agencies and USCIS and be consistent with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. Information sharing will also be conducted consistent with applicable System of Records Notices and routine uses.

No USCIS benefit application or petition is guaranteed approval, and can be denied for a variety of reasons to include failure to establish eligibility for the requested application of petition.; However, an applicant who does not have a social media presence will not be denied a benefit on that basis. Nevertheless, if an applicant willfully misrepresents information, or does not provide sufficient information to establish eligibility for the requested benefit the benefit request may be denied.

As of the submission of this Federal Register Notice, USCIS currently will not use social media handle information to communicate with the applicant. USCIS will not “friend” or “follow” any applicants or petitioners on social media.

Submission of Intentionally Inaccurate Data by Applicant

Any alien who, by fraud or willfully misrepresenting a material fact, seeks an immigration benefit or admission into the United States is inadmissible.¹⁰ For a person to be inadmissible based on willful misrepresentation, the officer must find all of the following elements:

• The person procured, or sought to procure, a benefit under U.S. immigration laws;

• The person made a false representation;

• The false representation was willfully made;

• The false representation was material; and

• The false representation was made to a U.S. government official, generally an immigration or consular officer.¹¹

If the person succeeded in obtaining the benefit under the INA, he or she would be inadmissible for having procured the benefit by willful misrepresentation. If the attempt was not successful, then the person would still be inadmissible for having “sought to procure” the immigration benefit by willful misrepresentation.¹²

The USCIS forms and petitions cited in this supporting statement will each have an applicant’s certification section, whereby the applicant or petitioner will certify that the answers and information provided are true and correct. It is incumbent upon the applicant or petitioner to respond truthfully. If, in the course of USCIS’ screening and vetting of an application, USCIS finds that provided data is false or misleading, USCIS will determine appropriate action, based on its authorities.

Programs Affected, OMB Control Numbers

• OMB No. 1615-0052 – N-400 Application for Naturalization

• OMB No. 1615-0013 – I-131 Application for Travel Document

• OMB No. 1615-0017 – I-192 Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant

• OMB No. 1615-0023 – I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

• OMB No. 1615-0067 – I-589 Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal

• OMB No. 1615-0068 – I-590 Registration for Classification as a Refugee

• OMB No. 1615-0037 – I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition

• OMB No. 1615-0038 – I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence

• OMB No. 1615-0045 – I-829 Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status

Upon approval of the new generic clearance, USCIS will submit Information Collection Change Requests to OMB to transfer the total hour burden for this generic clearance to each individual affected information collection to update the associated burden estimates. These Change Request submissions to OMB will include the supporting documentation (e.g., a copy of the updated form and instructions, as applicable, and Supporting Statement). The total burden impact for each affected information collection will be outlined in each Supporting Statement.

New Information To Be Collected

1.a. Have you had or used a social media account in the past give (5) years? Enter information associated with your online social media presence over the past five years:

• [checkbox] Yes, I have had or used a social media account in the past five (5) years.

• [checkbox] No, I have not had or used a social media account in the past five (5) years.

1.b. If you answered “Yes,” provide the total number of social media accounts: [fillable field]

1.c. Enter information associated with your online social media presence over the past five (5) years, if any. If you have had or used an account with a social media provider or platform that is listed in the Instructions, enter that information into the following table.

• Provider/Platform Listed in Instructions (dropdown menu with list from Instructions);

• Social Media Identifier/Username/Handle/Alias (open field for response); and

• Personal/Business/Organization (open field for response).

If you have had or used an account with a social media provider or platform that is not listed in the instructions, enter that information in the following table.

• Provider/Platform Listed in Instructions (dropdown menu with list from Instructions);

• Social Media Identifier/Username/Handle/Alias (open field for response); and

• Personal/Business/Organization (open field for response).

Instructional Content:

Provide all social media handles, identifiers, or usernames used on social media over the past five (5) years. Your response should include both active social media accounts and inactive or deleted accounts. For each identifier/username/handle/alias(es)/other on-line personas, provide the associated social media platform. If the social media platform does not use a handle, provide the relevant associated identifiable information used to access the platform (for example, email, phone number). For each social media account you listed, indicate whether it is personal, business, or organization (for example, university alumni, hobby group or club, etc.) account.

Department of Homeland Security defines social media as the sphere of websites, applications, and web-based tools that connect users to engage in dialogue, share information and media, collaborate, and interact. Social media takes many different forms, including web-based communities and hosted services, social networking sites, video and photo sharing sites, blogs, virtual worlds, social bookmarking, broadcast/push text messaging services, and other emerging technologies. Social media platforms include, but are not limited to:

• Discord

• Douyin

• Facebook

• GroupMe

• IMO

• Instagram

• Jodel

• Kuaishou

• LinkedIn

• MySpace

• Pinterest

• QQ

• Qzone

• Reddit

• Skype

• Snapchat

• Telegram

• Threads

• TikTok

• Tumblr

• Twitch

• VK

• Weibo

• Weixin/WeChat

• X (Formerly Twitter)

• YouTube

• WhatsApp

NOTE: USCIS will not use social media handle information to communicate with the applicant/beneficiary. USCIS will not “friend” or “follow” or take similar action on social media any applicants/beneficiaries or individuals on whose behalf the application is being filed.

3. Describe whether, and to what extent, the collection of information involves the use of automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses, and the basis for the decision for adopting this means of collection. Also describe any consideration of using information technology to reduce burden.

Where appropriate, USCIS collects information electronically from an applicant and pursues internal and external data analysis, as required by policy and existing law.

USCIS is currently engaged in an agency-wide effort to move the processing of immigration benefits from paper-based to an electronic environment, accessible to both USCIS employees and applicants for benefits.

• OMB No. 1615-0052 – N-400 Application for Naturalization: This form may be filed electronically or in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0013 – I-131 Application for Travel Document: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0017 – I-192 Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0023 – I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0067 – I-589 Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal: This form may be filed electronically or in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0068 – I-590 Registration for Classification as a Refugee: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0037 – I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0038 – I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: This form is only available in paper format.

• OMB No. 1615-0045 – I-829 Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status: This form is only available in paper format.

4. Describe efforts to identify duplication. Show specifically why any similar information already available cannot be used or modified for use for the purposes described in Item 2 above.

USCIS seeks to expand, according to its authorities and through the collection of social media information, current screening and vetting procedures performed on applicants for immigration benefits and requests. The new information collection submitted for approval under this information collection request is not already widely collected, available and shared among Federal border control, immigration benefit, enforcement, national security and law enforcement agencies, and is necessary to determine if the alien is eligible to receive an immigration benefit.

In order to minimize any duplication of efforts, USCIS has identified for this submission the forms that are deemed primary applications or petitions for receipt of an immigration benefit.

5. If the collection of information impacts small businesses or other small entities (Item 5 of OMB Form 83-I), describe any methods used to minimize burden.

USCIS minimizes the amount of information collected from the affected small businesses to reduce the burden placed upon them.  USCIS requests only that information which is needed by officers to determine eligibility.  This includes information that will reduce the likelihood that USCIS may need to issue a request for evidence (RFE) upon review of the form and initial evidence submission. 

 

6. Describe the consequence to Federal program or policy activities if the collection is not conducted or is conducted less frequently, as well as any technical or legal obstacles to reducing burden.

Without the information requested, USCIS will not be able to implement EO 14161 and may not adequately determine the eligibility of aliens to receive an immigration benefit from USCIS. In addition, without the requested information, USCIS’ ability to identify threats to national security and public safety in an accurate and timely manner may be hindered.

7. Explain any special circumstances that would cause an information collection to be conducted in a manner:

• Requiring respondents to report information to the agency more often than quarterly;

• Requiring respondents to prepare a written response to a collection of information in fewer than 30 days after receipt of it;

• Requiring respondents to submit more than an original and two copies of any document;

• Requiring respondents to retain records, other than health, medical, government contract, grant-in-aid, or tax records for more than three years;

• In connection with a statistical survey, that is not designed to produce valid and reliable results that can be generalized to the universe of study;

• Requiring the use of a statistical data classification that has not been reviewed and approved by OMB;

• That includes a pledge of confidentiality that is not supported by authority established in statute or regulation, that is not supported by disclosure and data security policies that are consistent with the pledge, or which unnecessarily impedes sharing of data with other agencies for compatible confidential use; or

• Requiring respondents to submit proprietary trade secret, or other confidential information unless the agency can demonstrate that it has instituted procedures to protect the information's confidentiality to the extent permitted by law.

This information collection is conducted in a manner consistent with the guidelines in 5 CFR 1320.5(d)(2).

8. If applicable, provide a copy and identify the data and page number of publication in the Federal Register of the agency’s notice, required by 5 CFR 1320.8(d), soliciting comments on the information collection prior to submission to OMB. Summarize public comments received in response to that notice and describe actions taken by the agency in response to these comments. Specifically address comments received on cost and hour burden.

Describe efforts to consult with persons outside the agency to obtain their views on the availability of data, frequency of collection, the clarity of instructions and recordkeeping, disclosure, or reporting format (if any), and on the data elements to be recorded, disclosed, or reported.

Consultation with representatives of those from whom information is to be obtained or those who must compile records should occur at least once every 3 years - even if the collection of information activity is the same as in prior periods. There may be circumstances that may preclude consultation in a specific situation. These circumstances should be explained.

On March 5, 2025, USCIS published a 60-day notice in the Federal Register at 90 FR 11324. USCIS received 1,186 comments after publishing that notice. USCIS’s responses to the public comments can be found in the following attachment shown in the Supplementary Documents: 60-Day Public Comment Response Matrix.

On September 16, 2025, USCIS published a 30-day notice in the Federal Register at 90 FR 44693. USCIS received 20 comments after publishing that notice. USCIS’s responses to the public comments can be found in the following attachment shown in the Supplementary Documents: 30-Day Public Comment Response Matrix.

9. Explain any decision to provide any payment or gift to respondents, other than remuneration of contractors or grantees.

USCIS does not provide any payment for benefit sought.

10. Describe any assurance of confidentiality provided to respondents and the basis for the assurance in statute, regulation or agency policy.

USCIS provides assurance of confidentiality for protected classes of immigrants consistent with 8 C.F.R. § 208.6 and 8 U.S.C. § 1367. Additional assurances are derived from the Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. 552a and the E-Government Act of 2002.

1. Public Law 107-347, “E-Government Act of 2002,” as amended, Section 208 [44 U.S.C. § 3501 note];

2. Title 5, United States Code (U.S.C.), Section 552a, “Records maintained on individuals” [The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended];

3. Title 6, U.S.C., Section 142, “Privacy officer.”;

4. Title 44, U.S.C., Chapter 35, Subchapter II, “Information Security” [The Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014 (FISMA)];

5. DHS Directive 047-01, “Privacy Policy and Compliance” (July 25, 2011);

6. DHS Instruction 047-01-001, “Privacy Policy and Compliance” (July 25, 2011) as amended February 3, 2025;

7. Privacy Policy Guidance Memorandum 2008-01/Privacy Policy Directive 140-06, “The Fair Information Practice Principles: Framework for Privacy Policy at the Department of Homeland Security.” (December 29, 2008);

8. Refugees and asylees are protected by the confidentiality provisions of 8 CFR 208.6; 8 U.S.C. § 1103; and,

9. Aliens in TPS status have the confidentiality protections described in 8 CFR 244.16; 8 U.S.C. § 1254a(c)(6). There are no confidentiality assurances for other aliens applying for the benefit.

The System of Record Notices (SORN) associated with this information collection are:

• DHS/USCIS-007 Benefits Information System, October 10, 2019, 84 FR 54622.

The USCIS Privacy Impact Assessments (PIA) associated with this information collection are:

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-013 Fraud Detection and National Security Data System (FDNS-DS), May 18, 2016;

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-013-01 Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate, August 30, 2019; and

The programs affected are covered under the identified Privacy Impact Assessments and System of Record Notices as shown in each Information Collection OMB Control Number. The following includes the applicable SORNs and PIAs for the programs affected, as associated with this new generic clearance.

The SORNs for the programs affected, as associated with this information collection, are:

• DHS/USCIS/ICE/CBP-001 Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System of Records, September 18, 2017, 82 FR 43556 (all USCIS forms);

• DHS/USCIS-007 Benefits Information System, October 10, 2019, 84 FR 54622 (Forms N-400, I-131, I-192, I-485, I-590, I-730, I-751, I-829);

• DHS/USCIS-010 Asylum Information and Pre-Screening System of Records November 30, 2015, 80 FR 74781 (Form I-589, Form I-730);

• DHS/CBP-006 Automated Targeting System, May 22, 2012, 77 FR 30297 (Form I-192);

• DHS/CBP-009 – Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), July 12, 2022, 87 FR 41338 (ESTA Form); and,

  • Final Rule for Privacy Act Exemptions, March 16, 2020, 85 FR 14734.

• DHS/CBP-022 Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) System of Records, June 27, 2023, 88 FR 41648 (EVUS Form);

  • Final Rule for Privacy Exemptions, November 25, 2016, 81 FR 85105.

The USCIS PIAs for the programs affected, as associated with this information collection, are:

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-068 Refugee Case Processing and Security Vetting, April 24, 2020;

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-013 Fraud Detection and National Security Data System (FDNS-DS), May 18, 2016;

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-013-01 Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate, August 30, 2019; and

• DHS/USCIS/PIA-027(c) USCIS Asylum Division, July 21, 2017.

11. Provide additional justification for any questions of a sensitive nature, such as sexual behavior and attitudes, religious beliefs, and other matters that are commonly considered private. This justification should include the reasons why the agency considers the questions necessary, the specific uses to be made of the information, the explanation to be given to persons from whom the information is requested, and any steps to be taken to obtain their consent.

There are no questions of a sensitive nature included in this generic clearance request.

12. Provide estimates of the hour burden of the collection of information. The statement should:

• Indicate the number of respondents, frequency of response, annual hour burden, and an explanation of how the burden was estimated. Unless directed to do so, agencies should not conduct special surveys to obtain information on which to base hour burden estimates. Consultation with a sample (fewer than 10) of potential respondents is desirable. If the hour burden on respondents is expected to vary widely because of differences in activity, size, or complexity, show the range of estimated hour burden, and explain the reasons for the variance. Generally, estimates should not include burden hours for customary and usual business practices.

• If this request for approval covers more than one form, provide separate hour burden estimates for each form and aggregate the hour burdens in Item 13 of OMB Form 83-I.

• Provide estimates of annualized cost to respondents for the hour burdens for collections of information, identifying and using appropriate wage rate categories. The cost of contracting out or paying outside parties for information collection activities should not be included here. Instead, this cost should be included in Item 14.

Type of Respondent	Form Name / Form Number	Form Name	No. of Respondents	No. of Responses per Respondent	Total Number of Responses	Avg. Burden per Response (in hours)	Total Annual Burden (in hours)	Avg. Hourly Wage Rate	Total Annual Respondent Cost
Individuals or Households	N-400	Application for Naturalization	909,700	1	909,700	0.67	609,499	$45.96	$28,012,574
Individuals or Households	I-131	Application for Travel Document	1,006,844	1	1,006,844	1.17	1,178,007	$45.96	$54,141,224
Individuals or Households	I-192	Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant	68,050	1	68,050	0.67	45,594	$45.96	$2,095,477
Individuals or Households	I-485	Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status	1,060,585	1	1,060,585	0.67	710,592	$45.96	$32,658,806
Individuals or Households	I-589	Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal	203,379	1	203,379	0.67	136,264	$45.96	$6,262,690
Individuals or Households	I-590	I-590, Registration for Classification as Refugee	53,100	1	53,100	0.67	35,577	$45.96	$1,635,119
Individuals or Households	I-730	Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition	13,000	1	13,000	0.67	8,710	$45.96	$400,312
Individuals or Households	I-751	Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence	153,000	1	153,000	3.17	485,010	$45.96	$22,291,060
Individuals or Households	I-829	Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status	1,010	1	1,010	0.67	677	$45.96	$31,101
Total					3,468,668		3,209,930		$147,528,363

* The above Average Hourly Wage Rate is the May 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics average wage for All Occupations of $31.48 times the wage rate benefit multiplier of 1.46 (to account for benefits provided) equaling $45.96. The selection of “All Occupations” was chosen because respondents to this collection could be expected from any occupation.

13. Provide an estimate of the total annual cost burden to respondents or record keepers resulting from the collection of information. (Do not include the cost of any hour burden shown in Items 12 and 14).

• The cost estimate should be split into two components: (a) a total capital and start-up cost component (annualized over its expected useful life); and (b) a total operation and maintenance and purchase of services component. The estimates should take into account costs associated with generating, maintaining, and disclosing or providing the information. Include descriptions of methods used to estimate major cost factors including system and technology acquisition, expected useful life of capital equipment, the discount rate(s), and the time period over which costs will be incurred. Capital and start-up costs include, among other items, preparations for collecting information such as purchasing computers and software; monitoring, sampling, drilling and testing equipment; and record storage facilities.

• If cost estimates are expected to vary widely, agencies should present ranges of cost burdens and explain the reasons for the variance. The cost of purchasing or contracting out information collection services should be a part of this cost burden estimate. In developing cost burden estimates, agencies may consult with a sample of respondents (fewer than 10), utilize the 60-day pre-OMB submission public comment process and use existing economic or regulatory impact analysis associated with the rulemaking containing the information collection, as appropriate.

• Generally, estimates should not include purchases of equipment or services, or portions thereof, made: (1) prior to October 1, 1995; (2) to achieve regulatory compliance with requirements not associated with the information collection; (3) for reasons other than to provide information or keep records for the government; or, (4) as part of customary and usual business or private practices.

No additional costs to the public are anticipated due to this action. Any costs to the respondents associated with the specific form filed are captured in those approved information collections.

14. Provide estimates of annualized cost to the Federal government. Also, provide a description of the method used to estimate cost, which should include quantification of hours, operational expenses (such as equipment, overhead, printing, and support staff), and any other expense that would not have been incurred without this collection of information. Agencies also may aggregate cost estimates from Items 12, 13, and 14 in a single table.

These costs will be captured in the specific individual information collections under each OMB Control Number identified above. Specific costs will be accounted for depending on the number of questions added to each form and the system changes that are required to capture that data. USCIS has no estimate for the aggregate costs for system updates for the affected information collections.

15. Explain the reasons for any program changes or adjustments reporting in Items 13 or 14 of the OMB Form 83-I.

This is a new generic clearance for the collection of social media identifier(s) on immigration forms. This request is being submitted for review and approval to fulfill the requirements of E.O. 14161, Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats (Section 2), to establish enhanced screening and vetting standards and procedures in order to improve USCIS’s ability to assess an alien’s eligibility to receive an immigration-related benefit from USCIS. This data collection will also be used to validate an applicant’s identity and determine whether such grant of a benefit poses a security or public-safety threat to the United States.

Data collection Activity/Instrument	Program Change (hours currently on OMB Inventory)	Program Change (New)	Difference
N-400	0	609,499	609,499
I-131	0	1,178,007	1,178,007
I-192	0	45,594	45,594
I-485	0	710,592	710,592
I-589	0	136,264	136,264
I-590	0	35,577	35,577
I-730	0	8,710	8,710
I-751	0	485,010	485,010
I-829	0	677	677
Total(s)	0	3,209,930	3,209,930

USCIS is reporting the estimated annual hour burden impact to respondents for the individual information collections as a result of this new generic clearance for the addition of data elements for enhanced identity verification and national security vetting.

USCIS is reporting no estimated annual cost burden to respondents associated with this new generic clearance.

16. For collections of information whose results will be published, outline plans for tabulation, and publication. Address any complex analytical techniques that will be used. Provide the time schedule for the entire project, including beginning and ending dates of the collection of information, completion of report, publication dates, and other actions.

This information collection will not be published for statistical purposes.

17. If seeking approval to not display the expiration date for OMB approval of the information collection, explain the reasons that display would be inappropriate.

USCIS will display the expiration date for OMB approval of this information collection.

18. Explain each exception to the certification statement identified in Item 19, “Certification for Paperwork Reduction Act Submission,” of OMB 83-I.

USCIS does not request an exception to the certification of this information collection.

B. Collections of Information Employing Statistical Methods.

There is no statistical methodology involved with this collection.

1 Vetting, for purposes of immigration enforcement and border security, involves the review and evaluation of information associated to an individual to validate identity, identify potential threats, and identify issues related to fraud, misrepresentation, national security, border security, homeland security, public safety, or law enforcement interests of the United States.

2 The applicable DHS applications and petitions are described in this supporting statement in sections 1 and 2. DHS notes that the I-730, the I-751, and the I-829 are petitions, although as defined in 8 CFR 1.2 the terms can be used interchangeably.

3 Publicly available social media means the sphere of websites, applications, and web-based tools that connect users to engage in dialogue, share information and media, collaborate, and interact and that has been published or broadcast in some manner to the general public, could lawfully be seen or heard by a casual observer, is made available at a meeting open to the public, or is obtained by visiting any place or attending any event that is open to the public. Publicly available social media does not require a user to purchase or otherwise pay for a subscription of use and does not require an invitation from a user to join or the establishment of a relationship (e.g., “friend,” “follow,” “connect”) to otherwise access information. Publicly available social media may require a user to create an account in order to access services and related content. Social media take many forms, including but not limited to web-based communities and hosted services, social networking sites, video and photo sharing technologies.

4 For the purposes of this supporting statement and the associated USCIS forms, “user identifications” are defined as usernames, handles, screen names, or other identifiers associated with an individual’s online presence and social media profile. Passwords are not considered user identifications and will not be collected.

5 Non-social media websites, such as those for applicants to carry out financial transactions, medical appointment and records, homeowner’s associations, travel, and tourism are not germane to this information collection.

6 USCIS will modify the Applicant’s Certification section on the applicable USCIS forms and petitions to include the following text: “I also authorize USCIS to use publicly available social media information for verification purposes and to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit that I seek. I further understand that USCIS is not requiring me to provide passwords; to log into a private account; or to take any action that would disclose non-publicly available social media information.”

7 California v. Greenwood, 486 U.S. 35, 41 (1988).

8 DHS authorities under the “Privacy Policy for Operational Use of Social Media” are as follows: Public Law 107-347, “E-Government Act of 2002” as amended, Section 208 [44. United States Code (U.S.C.) § 3501 note]; Title 5, U.S.C., Section 552a, “Records Maintained on Individuals” [The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended]; Title 6 U.S.C., Section 142, “”Privacy Officer”; Title 44, U.S.C., Chapter 35, Subchapter III, “Information Security” [The Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002, as amended (FISMA); Delegation 13001, “Delegation to the Chief Privacy Officer”.

9 All access controls described in relevant Privacy Impact Assessments and System of Records Notices are available to the public on the DHS website (www.dhs.gov/privacy).

10 See INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i). For a definition of materiality, see Chapter 3, Adjudicating Inadmissibility, Section E, and Materiality [8 USCIS-PM J.3 (E)].

11 See Matter of Y-G-, 20 I&N Dec. 794, 796 (BIA 1994) and USCIS Policy Manual, current as of May 23, 2018, Volume 8, Admissibility, part J, Fraud and Willful Misrepresentation.

12 For example, the misrepresentation was detected and the benefit was denied.

17

File Type	application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document
File Title	SUPPORTING STATEMENT FOR
Author	TSA Standard PC User
File Modified	0000-00-00
File Created	2025-11-26