Which Countries Have Banned Social Media for Children? Check the Full List

There are high chances that you will witness children glued to their phones watching short form videos, checking likes or chatting with friends online almost everywhere. This has become the new normal however governments around the world are stepping in. 

The use of these social media apps are showing concerns about children's mental health, online safety, and screen addiction and that is why several countries are introducing stricter rules on social media use by minors. There are some countries that have imposed age limits, while others have passed laws that require parental consent. 

Here is a look at which countries have already acted towards social media ban, which ones are planning to, and how these rules actually work.

Which Countries Have Banned Social Media for Children?

Australia

Australia has made history last year on December 10, 2025 by becoming the first country in the world to enforce a nationwide ban on social media for children under 16. This law by Australia covers major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, X,  and Reddit. However, the ban doesn’t apply to YouTube Kids, WhatsApp, Messenger or gaming platforms. 

Brazil

The country’s Digital Statute of Children and Adolescents took effect recently on March 17, 2026. This requires users under 16 to link their accounts to a parent or legal guardian. Moreover it bans addictive features such as infinite scroll for young users.

France

The National Assembly of the country approved a bill in January 2026 to ban social media for children under 15. This was passed due to increasing bullying and mental health concerns. However, this bill still needs approval from the Senate before becoming final law. The country earlier had a law that already required parental consent for users under 15.

Why Are Countries Introducing These Rules?

The governments around the world are pointing to a few constant reasons. The major reasons that are pointed out by studies and government data shows that using social media heavily raises rates of anxiety, poor sleep, and is also a major cause of low self-esteem. 

Moreover, lawmakers also mention cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and addictive app design are major concerns that children face online and that is why governments are implementing stricter laws.