🇺🇸 US Resumes Student Visas, Now Requires Social Media Access

US Visa

The United States Department of State has announced the resumption of student visa processing for international applicants, with a new requirement mandating public access to all social media accounts as part of a broader national security vetting process.

In a statement released Wednesday, the department confirmed that embassies and consulates will soon begin scheduling appointments for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa categories, which cover academic students, vocational students, and exchange visitors.

Social Media Now Part of Visa Vetting

Under the new guidelines, visa applicants must adjust privacy settings on all social media accounts to “public” to allow U.S. immigration authorities to conduct a comprehensive review of online activity.

“Applicants who fail to comply with this requirement may be viewed as attempting to conceal online activity, which could adversely impact their visa application,” the statement warned.

The department said this step is necessary to ensure that all individuals seeking entry to the United States are thoroughly vetted and do not pose a threat to national security or American interests.

What Visa Applicants Need to Know

• Who is affected? All F (academic), M (vocational), and J (exchange) visa applicants.

• What’s required? Public access to all social media accounts during the application process.

• When does this take effect? Immediately, as appointment scheduling resumes at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.

• Where to apply? Applicants are advised to visit the website of the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate for local scheduling updates.

Background: Visa Suspension Under Trump

This policy update follows the temporary suspension of student visa appointments in May 2025, initiated under President Donald Trump’s administration. The move was part of broader immigration reforms aimed at increasing scrutiny on applicants from countries deemed potentially hostile to U.S. interests.

Critics of the suspension argued it disrupted the plans of thousands of international students. The resumption, however, is being cautiously welcomed—with concerns now shifting toward privacy implications and potential overreach in digital surveillance.

Implications for International Students

This development could significantly impact student mobility, particularly for those from regions with strict online expression norms. Experts warn that requiring social media transparency may deter some students from applying or create anxiety about digital content being misinterpreted.

Nonetheless, U.S. officials insist that the move is essential for protecting American citizens and ensuring transparency during the visa issuance process.

“Applicants must credibly establish their intent to engage only in permitted activities consistent with their visa classification,” the department added.

Conclusion

As the U.S. reopens its doors to international students, it does so with sharpened scrutiny and evolving expectations. For hopeful applicants, understanding and complying with the new social media disclosure requirements will now be a key step in securing educational opportunities in the United States.