US Resumes Student Visa Processing with Enhanced Social Media Screening

In a major development that directly impacts international student recruitment, the US State Department has officially resumed the processing of Student and Exchange Visitor Visas, including F (Academic), M (Vocational), and J (Exchange) categories, after a suspension that began on 27^th May 2025.

The resumption comes with a significant policy shift: Mandatory Enhanced Social Media Screening for all applicants. According to a State Department Cable dated 18^th June 2025, all US Consulates Abroad have been directed to restart USA Student Visa interviews while simultaneously implementing strict screening measures.

What’s New about the Enhanced Screening Process?

The enhanced screening process instructs visa officers to examine not just Social Media Platforms but any Digital Footprint, including Blogs, Publications, or Online Affiliations. The goal is to detect any indicators or evidence of potential issues.

• Hostility toward US Citizens, Culture, Government, Institutions, or Founding Principles
• Support for or Advocacy of Foreign Terrorism or Antisemitic Violence
• Political activism is deemed likely to continue on US soil, especially if linked to unlawful acts

Applicants are required to keep their social media accounts, such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and others, set to public, to facilitate the screening process. Officers will retain screenshots of any concerning content for official records. This policy extends to both first-time and returning applicants.

Implications for International Students & US Institutions

This directive is expected to intensify scrutiny and may slow down processing timelines, especially during peak months (May to August), when nearly 70% of US Student Visas are issued. While visa scheduling will continue, the cable acknowledges that due to the increased resource burden, fewer interviews may be conducted per post compared to previous years.

Additionally, priority scheduling will be granted to J-1 applicants and those attending institutions with less than 15% foreign enrollment, in line with broader immigration directives under the Trump administration.

What does this mean for International Students?

For students in countries like India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines, where the US remains a Top Study Destination, this update comes at a critical time. With academic sessions set to begin soon, the race is to secure approvals, finalize travel plans, and meet institutional reporting deadlines.

All in all, the reinstatement of visa processing is a welcome relief for thousands of students worldwide. However, the newly introduced mandatory social media screening adds a critical layer to the application process, making transparency and digital caution more important than ever.

So, it is important for international students planning to study in the USA to prepare more thoroughly, not only in terms of documentation but also in digital presence and online conduct. US aspirants can reach out to KC Overseas Education for expert assistance with the student visa application process and the newly updated screening protocols.