US tightens visa screening, requires social media access for Student Applicants
By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON US State Department on Thursday has announced a new policy requires all applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas to adjust their social media privacy settings to “public” for enhanced vetting.
US State Department spokesperson office said in a media note on the move is to strengthen national security and public safety by scrutinizing applicants’ online presence more thoroughly.
The new guidelines mandate comprehensive vetting, including online presence, for all student and exchange visitor applicants.
Applicants must make their social media profiles public to facilitate the vetting process, said the State Department.
The official emphasized that every visa adjudication is a national security decision, and the US must remain vigilant to protect its citizens and interests.
“A US visa is a privilege, not a right. We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security,” the State Department stated.
The policy change reflects the US government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens while also adhering to strict standards in the visa issuance process.
US State Department advised applicants to check the relevant embassy or consulate website for appointment availability as overseas posts resume scheduling F, M, and J non-immigrant visa applications.
