New US Visa Policy Requires Students To Make Social Media Profiles Public For Screening

Students who wish to study in the US and obtain a visa smoothly will now be required to disclose their social media profiles for review to detect any anti-US content. This new security screening measure is mandatory for all students who want to study further in the United States.

Social Media Screening Mandatory To Obtain US Student Visa 

As per HT, on Wednesday, the US State Department announced that it is resuming the processing of visas for foreign students after the process was paused at the end of May. However, under the new guidelines, all applicants will now have to show their social media accounts for review and vetting. The department said consular officers will look for posts that are anti-American or hostile to the country’s government, culture, values, and institutions.

The US State Department also mentioned that student visa applicants who refuse to make their social media public or deny access might face rejection. They said officials could see a refusal to share accounts as an attempt to hide online activity. They also added that it could suggest the applicant is trying to evade the screening process.

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Strict Vetting For US Visas

The Trump administration had temporarily paused new visa interview appointments for international students last month to prepare for tighter social media screening, according to HT. Students from countries such as India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines were waiting for US consulates to resume appointments. Many of them needed to plan their travel and housing before the academic year began.

The department has stated that applicants must make their social media profiles public to allow for vetting, as per HT. They also added that enhanced screening will help ensure proper background checks for everyone trying to visit the country.

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This new policy will significantly change how the US issues student visas. It clearly makes the screening process stricter for those wanting to study further in the United States.

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