US Suspends New Student Visa Interviews Amid Plans for Stricter Social Media Vetting

The United States has suspended the scheduling of new student visa interviews globally as part of a sweeping move to introduce tougher screening measures

The decision, confirmed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is aimed at enhancing national security through expanded vetting of international applicants’ social media activity.

The suspension affects all new appointments for F, M, and J visa categories — commonly used by students and academic exchange visitors. While existing visa interviews will still proceed as scheduled, no new ones will be set until the State Department issues further guidance.

According to officials, the new screening will involve deeper analysis of applicants’ online presence to identify any affiliations or expressions of support for groups the U.S. considers hostile.

Critics warn that the move could infringe on free speech and privacy rights, and say it risks unfairly denying visas based on political views or past posts. Universities across the country have expressed concern about the impact on international enrollment, which contributes billions of dollars annually to the U.S. economy and campus diversity.

The Biden administration had previously rolled back similar measures, but the current Trump-led government has reinstated them, citing national security as a top priority. Further details on the expanded vetting process are expected soon.