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Trump Orders Stricter Social Media Vetting for US Student Visas
Trump admin resumes US student visa appointments but demands all applicants make social media profiles public. Missing info could mean denial. “Hostile attitudes” now part of vetting criteria.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-26
Trump Orders Stricter Social Media Vetting for US Student Visas

The Trump administration has resumed student and exchange visitor visa appointments at US consulates worldwide — but with significantly tightened social media screening, according to an internal State Department cable reviewed by Reuters.

The directive, dated June 18, instructs consular officers to implement “comprehensive and thorough vetting” for F, M, and J visa applicants, targeting individuals perceived to have “hostile attitudes” toward US citizens, culture, institutions, or founding principles.

Social Media Now a Deciding Factor

According to updated posts on US consulate Instagram accounts, all student (F and M) and exchange (J) visa applicants are now required to make their social media accounts public immediately to aid in identity and security checks.

“Omitting social media information on your application could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future US visas,” the consulate warned.

This policy builds on a 2019 rule that made it mandatory for visa applicants to provide social media identifiers and handles during the application process. However, the latest move adds a layer of real-time scrutiny into applicants’ online behavior and political expressions.

Visa Pause Lifted After May Suspension

The announcement follows a May 27 directive in which US embassies were told to pause scheduling of student visa appointments pending a review of vetting procedures.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the review is complete and that new guidelines are in effect.

Rubio stated that the focus was on ensuring foreign students “do not pose ideological or security threats” to American society, and that the new framework strikes a balance between welcoming global talent and protecting national interests.

Critics Warn of Discrimination, Chilling Effect

Civil liberties groups and education advocates have expressed concern that the new policy could lead to ideological discrimination, especially targeting applicants from Muslim-majority countries or politically active students.

They also warned the policy may deter honest expression online and could have a chilling effect on academic freedom.

Background on Visa Types:

·       F Visa: For academic students enrolled in US institutions.

·       M Visa: For vocational or technical training.

·       J Visa: For individuals participating in exchange programs including research scholars, professors, and interns.
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