The US Department of State has announced the resumption of student visa processing for foreign nationals, introducing a new condition that requires applicants to make their social media profiles public for government vetting.
This measure will apply to applicants seeking entry under F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa categories, covering international students and exchange visitors.
Social Media Screening Becomes Mandatory
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the department confirmed that all visa applicants in the specified categories will be instructed to adjust their social media privacy settings to ‘public’.
This is aimed at allowing US authorities to conduct a more thorough background check as part of a wider effort to bolster national security.
“Under new guidance, we will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants,” the State Department stated.
Security Takes Priority Over Privacy
The department reiterated that a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and that each visa decision is ultimately a matter of national security.
“We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security,” the statement added.
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Applicants must demonstrate not only their eligibility for the visa but also confirm their intent to engage solely in activities permitted under their visa terms.
Pause on Visa Interviews Nearing End
Last month, the department indicated that it would lift the temporary pause on student visa interviews “sooner than later.”
At the time, officials encouraged prospective applicants to continue the application process and monitor updates for the resumption of regular services.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the pause and instructed embassies and consulates worldwide to temporarily halt student visa interviews.
This move aimed to allow for the implementation of more robust scrutiny of applicants’ digital activity, particularly on social media platforms.
Context: Heightened Scrutiny Amid Campus Unrest
The new measure comes against the backdrop of increasing political tensions on US college campuses, particularly related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
The Trump administration has expanded oversight of foreign students, expressing concern over their involvement in political demonstrations and the potential failure of universities to protect Jewish students.
Authorities have since targeted college administrators, accusing them of not taking sufficient action to prevent unrest or monitor the activities of foreign students on campus.
Looking Ahead
As student visa interviews resume under stricter conditions, prospective applicants will need to comply with the public access requirement for social media accounts.
The decision marks a significant shift in the US visa process, reflecting growing emphasis on digital transparency in matters of immigration and security.
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