The United States has introduced new rules for student visa applications, requiring applicants to make their social media accounts publicly accessible. This change aims to enhance the screening process for individuals seeking to study in the US, ensuring they do not pose a threat to national security. The US State Department announced that it will conduct thorough vetting, including examining online presence, for all student and exchange visitor applicants.
The new requirements apply to F, M, and J visa categories, which cover academic, vocational, and exchange programs. Applicants in these categories will be instructed to adjust their social media privacy settings to “public,” allowing authorities to scrutinize their online activity. The State Department will use all available data to identify potential security threats or individuals who may fail to meet visa conditions. This includes examining public records and databases, such as LexisNexis, in addition to social media profiles.
US diplomats have been ordered to investigate online activity for signs of hostility towards Americans, support for terrorist groups like Hamas, or anti-Semitic violence. As part of the screening process, officers must take screenshots and prepare case notes. The introduction of these new rules follows a pilot screening effort at Harvard University, where several foreign students were denied entry due to concerns over their online content. The university’s authorization to enroll international students was later revoked, with the administration citing a failure to address campus extremism and rejecting federal oversight.
The measures have been met with criticism from Harvard, which claims they are unlawful and politically motivated. The university argues that these actions harm its academic mission and global reputation. The new visa policy is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to tighten security measures and address concerns over national security. Since returning to office, President Trump has called for universities to shut down anti-Israel protests and dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, which he has described as anti-Semitic.
As the US continues to evolve its approach to national security and visa applications, the impact of these new rules on international students and academic institutions remains to be seen. The changes highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between security concerns and individual freedoms, particularly in the context of social media and online activity. With the US being a popular destination for international students, the new requirements are likely to have far-reaching implications for students and universities alike.
