U.S. Intensifies Social Media Vetting for Student Visas

The United States has announced the resumption of student visa appointments, aligning with a new directive to strengthen social media vetting. The update aims to better identify applicants perceived as hostile or a threat to national security. According to an internal State Department cable reviewed by Reuters, the comprehensive policy mandates consular officers to scrutinize the online activities of all student and exchange visa applicants, checking for hostile attitudes towards U.S. citizens, culture, and institutions.

The initiative follows an order from the Trump administration on May 27 suspending new student visa appointments pending the expansion of social media vetting protocols. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed updates would be implemented following a review process, thereby introducing the requirement for applicants to make their social media profiles public for inspection.

New guidelines necessitate consular officers to assess social media for any history of political activism linked to violence or anti-American sentiment. This action marks a focus on identifying and addressing activities counteractive to U.S. foreign policy, including criticisms towards allied nations. Critics argue this step undermines free speech rights, with implications spanning educational institutions like Harvard University, which face particular scrutiny under this expanded policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)