The U.S. State Department has introduced stricter vetting measures for student and exchange visitor visa applicants, emphasizing national security.
Effective immediately, all F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applicants will undergo comprehensive screening, including a review of their online presence.
To facilitate this, applicants must set their social media profiles to “public,” allowing consular officials to assess potential security risks.
The new policy underscores that a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right, and aims to identify individuals who may pose threats to national security or intend to violate visa terms.
The State Department will soon resume scheduling visa appointments, with applicants advised to check embassy or consulate websites for availability.
Officials stress that every visa decision is a national security matter, ensuring only eligible applicants who align with U.S. interests are granted entry.
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