The United States has announced the resumption of student visa interviews for foreign applicants, following a temporary suspension in May. However, under new guidelines, applicants will now be required to grant access to their social media accounts as part of the screening process.
In a statement released by the U.S. Department of State, officials confirmed that the visa application process has been revised to include enhanced vetting measures. All student and exchange visitor visa applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant categories must now adjust the privacy settings of their social media profiles to public to facilitate comprehensive background checks.
“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right,” the department’s spokesperson said. “We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting process to identify applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including individuals who may pose a threat to national security.”
The new policy mandates a full review of each applicant’s online presence. The State Department emphasized that this is part of its broader effort to strengthen national security and safeguard public safety.
Overseas U.S. embassies and consulates will soon begin scheduling interviews for F, M, and J visa applicants once again. The department urged prospective students and exchange visitors to regularly check the website of the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate for updates on appointment availability.
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” the statement added. “The United States must remain vigilant throughout the visa issuance process to ensure that individuals entering the country do not pose a threat to American citizens or national interests.”
