U.S. Restarts Student Visa Processing—but Now Requires Social Media Access

The U.S. State Department has officially announced the resumption of F, M, and J (student and exchange) visa applications, following a temporary halt. However, a major new requirement accompanies this reopening: all applicants must set their social media profiles to “public” for U.S. government review. What Changed? In May, visa interviews for international students were paused worldwide while new vetting procedures were developed. Now, embassies and consulates have been instructed to resume scheduling F, M, and J visa interviews. Social Media Screening Requirement New guidance mandates that applicants unlock all social media accounts as part of a “comprehensive vetting” process, allowing consular officers to examine posts, profiles, and online behavior. The policy focuses on identifying hostility toward the U.S. (its government, culture, or institutions), potential support for terrorism, antisemitic or extremist content, or other security red flags. Implications for A...