U.S. Tightens Social Media Vetting for Student Visas

The Trump administration announced a significant overhaul of its student visa process, mandating a more comprehensive social media vetting. The move aims to identify applicants with potentially hostile inclinations toward American values, culture, and institutions, based on an internal State Department cable reviewed by Reuters on Wednesday.

The administration, led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, ordered missions abroad to reassess visa applicants after halting new appointments previously. This new directive requires consular officers to review applicants' entire online presence, including any indications of political activism linked with violence or undesirable activities.

The stringent measures, applicable even to applicants for prestigious institutions like Harvard, have faced criticism for potentially infringing upon First Amendment rights. Additionally, concerns arise about fewer appointment availabilities due to extensive vetting requirements, impacting international students' ability to study in the U.S.

(With inputs from agencies.)