The United States has resumed processing student visas after a nearly four-week suspension, implementing stricter security measures.
The United States has resumed processing student visas after a nearly four-week suspension, implementing stricter security measures. The State Department, in a June 18 cable, instructed embassies and consulates to restart interviews for F, M, and J visa applicants.
The suspension, which began on May 27, disrupted the peak May–August visa issuance period. In 2024, 70% of student visas were issued during those months.
Under new guidelines, visa officers must now scrutinize applicants’ online and social media activity for signs of hostility toward the U.S., support for terrorism, antisemitic violence, or political activism.
“Posts should consider overall scheduling volume and the resource demands of appropriate vetting,” the cable noted, warning that fewer interviews may be scheduled.
Applicants must make their social media public and officers will archive concerning content.
A flagged profile won’t automatically lead to denial but must show likelihood to “engage only in activities consistent with his nonimmigrant visa status.”
“The enhanced social media vetting will ensure we are properly screening every single person attempting to visit our country,” the cable emphasised.