US resumes student visa processing. But there is a big catch
The
US State Department
has resumed visa interviews for
international student applicants
, after a pause in processing, but now requires
social media transparency
from every applicant. Under the new policy, all F, M, and J visa candidates must set personal social media profiles to 'public.' Consular officers will review posts for any signs of hostility toward the US. Closed or private accounts may be interpreted as an attempt to hide information, which could lead to additional scrutiny or rejection.
US consular officers have been instructed to carry out detailed screening of all student and exchange visa applicants to identify anyone showing hostility toward American citizens, culture, government, institutions, or core principles, according to a cable dated June 18 and sent to US missions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who signed the new directive, said revised procedures would follow after an internal review. The cable also instructs officers to be alert to applicants with a record of political activism, particularly if linked to violence or any of the flagged views, and to assess the risk of such behaviour continuing in the US.
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This measure forms part of a wider effort to tighten immigration security under the
Trump
administration. Priority scheduling will be given to applicants for J-1 visas and students heading to colleges where foreign enrolment is 15% or less. Critics of President Trump have argued that the administration's recent actions infringe on free speech protected by the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
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Earlier, addressing a press briefing, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the country will continue to vet whether a student or a tourist needs a visa.
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US resumes visas for foreign students but demands access to social media accounts
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"We do know, though, that we take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country, and we're going to continue to do that. We're going to continue to vet. Whether you're a student or a tourist who needs a visa, or whoever you are, we're going to be looking at you. Why would it seem to be such a controversial thing that's going on? But it shouldn't be," Tammy Bruce said.
On May 27, the Trump administration had paused new visa appointments for international students and exchange visitors while preparing to roll out expanded social media checks. However, interviews that were already scheduled before this directive continued as planned, according to a State Department cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
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