Foreign students and exchange visitors applying for U.S. visas will now face stricter background checks, including mandatory reviews of their public social media activity.
The new rules cover all applicants under F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa categories, which include academic students, vocational trainees, and cultural exchange participants.
“A U.S. 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 U.S. national security,” the State Department said.
Under the updated guidance, applicants must make all their social media accounts publicly viewable to aid the U.S. State Department in evaluating online behavior.
Applicants are also required to show credible intent to engage in legitimate activities consistent with their visa type.
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision. The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans and our national interests,” it said.
Visa interviews for these categories will resume soon at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, with appointment availability varying by location.