Big update for students: US resumes visa processing with strict social media checks
PTC Web Desk: The United States has resumed processing student visa applications after a brief suspension that was implemented to introduce new security protocols, the US State Department announced on Wednesday.
As per the revised guidelines, all student visa applicants are now required to grant access to their public social media profiles. Visa officers will review applicants' online activity to identify any content deemed anti-American or critical of the US government, its institutions, values, or founding principles.
“The increased social media vetting will ensure we are properly screening every single person trying to come to our country,” the department said in a statement.
This updated process follows a temporary pause in student visa interviews that was introduced under the Trump administration last month. The pause allowed time for US consulates to prepare for the rollout of the new screening procedures. With the suspension now lifted, student visa interviews and application processing have officially resumed under the enhanced regulations.
Students from nations, including India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines—many of whom have been eagerly awaiting appointment slots—are now scrambling to obtain their visas in time for the upcoming academic session.
- With inputs from agencies
