The State Department announced significant changes to the screening and vetting process for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas.
All foreign student and exchange visitor applicants will be subject to expanded scrutiny, with a particular focus on their social media activity. To assist with this vetting process, applicants are required to set their social media profiles to “public” to enable a thorough examination of their online presence.
This update, which took effect on June 18, follows a temporary pause in scheduling student visa interviews that occurred earlier in June. The goal of these changes is to improve national security and public safety through comprehensive vetting measures, including the analysis of applicants’ online activities.
The impact of the visa pause for EB-5 applicants
The initial pause in interviews affected students planning to transition to EB-5 visas after completing their studies. These updates to the vetting process are also expected to influence foreign students’ decisions about studying in the U.S.
The Department of State has stated that overseas posts will soon resume scheduling for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applications. Applicants are encouraged to stay informed by checking their embassy or consulate websites for available appointment slots.
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