The United States has resumed visa interviews for foreign students after a temporary suspension in May. However, the process now includes a new requirement: all applicants must grant access to their social media accounts as part of an expanded vetting procedure.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the move is aimed at strengthening national security by conducting more comprehensive background checks on prospective international students. Applicants under the F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa categories must now make their social media profiles public for review.
“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right,” a department spokesperson said in a statement. “We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify applicants who may pose a threat to national security.”
The department also emphasized that every visa adjudication is treated as a national security matter and advised applicants to regularly check the websites of U.S. embassies or consulates for appointment updates.
The decision underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that those entering the country do not pose risks to American citizens or interests.