New US visa rules require public access to applicants’ online profiles
Visa processing resumes after month-long pause during peak application season
DUBAI: The United States has resumed processing of student and exchange visitor visas, but with a significant change – all applicants must now grant public access to their social media accounts as part of an expanded digital screening process.
The new policy, announced by the US State Department, applies to F (academic students), M (vocational students), and J (exchange visitors) visa categories. It follows a one-month suspension of new visa interviews while authorities implemented enhanced security protocols across consulates worldwide.
“The State Department is committed to protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process. A US visa is a privilege, not a right,” the Department stated.
“Under new guidance, we will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications.”
— Department of State (@StateDept) June 21, 2025
Officials say this step ensures visa adjudications serve national interests and help prevent the entry of individuals who may pose risks to American society, values, or institutions.
Social media screening now mandatory
Under the updated procedures, applicants for F, M, and J visas are required to:
- Change the privacy settings on all social media profiles to “public”
- Cooperate fully with digital screening, including posts, comments, and activity history
- Avoid deleting or editing posts immediately prior to interviews, as this may appear evasive
Consular officers have been instructed to examine applicants’ online activity for signs of antisemitism, support for extremist ideologies, political radicalisation, or hostility toward American values. Screenshots of questionable content will be saved as part of the applicant’s visa record. The directive applies to both first-time and renewal applicants.
Visa pause affected thousands globally
Visa services were temporarily paused on May 27, 2025, under the Trump administration, as part of a plan to introduce broader digital scrutiny in visa adjudications. The move coincided with peak student visa season, typically running from May to August, during which nearly 70% of all student visas were issued in 2024.
The freeze triggered anxiety among thousands of international students, with many checking embassy websites and social platforms daily for resumption updates. Countries most affected included India, China, the Philippines, Mexico, and Nigeria.
The State Department has now directed overseas posts to gradually resume F, M, and J visa interviews. Applicants are advised to frequently monitor the relevant US embassy or consulate site for appointment availability.
Concerns over digital rights
The tougher guidelines have stirred concern among students, rights advocates, and universities. There is growing unease over vague definitions of “hostile content” and fears that past social media activity – even years old – may now lead to visa denials.
These new screening protocols follow an earlier announcement by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on April 9, 2025, confirming that antisemitic activity on social media and physical harassment of Jewish individuals can now serve as grounds to deny immigration benefits. This applies across the board – from student visa applicants to those seeking permanent residence.
How to apply
- Secure admission from a SEVP-certified US institution
- Receive Form I-20 from the school
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online
- Complete the DS-160 application
- Schedule an interview at a US embassy or consulate
Documents to prepare
- Valid passport
- Form I-20
- Proof of finances
- Academic transcripts
- List of public social media accounts
Tips for applicants
- Set all social media profiles to public before applying
- Do not delete or alter posts near the application date
- Ensure consistency between digital footprint and visa application
- Avoid content that may appear critical of US policies or institutions
The United States now treats online activity as an essential part of the visa screening process – a move that redefines how future students engage with digital platforms before stepping foot in the country.