US Student Visa Applicants Now Asked to Make Social Media Accounts Public Amid New Vetting Rules

Washington D.C., July 2025- The U.S. government has quietly introduced a new policy that requires all international student visa applicants to make their personal social media accounts public. This rule applies to those applying for F, M, or J visas and is already in effect.

The move is part of a broader crackdown on student visa vetting procedures. According to updated guidance, U.S. consular officers are now required to review applicants’ online activity to identify any potential “hostile attitudes” toward the United States. This includes content related to terrorism, anti-Semitism, or perceived threats to U.S. values and security.

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Officials say the goal is to strengthen national security and prevent misuse of student visas. However, many experts and education advocates are concerned about how the policy will be applied—and how it could affect genuine students.

“If an applicant refuses to make their account public, it could be seen as evasive,” said one immigration attorney, adding that this could lead to visa delays or denials even for students with no criminal history.

Social Media Vetting Raises Red Flags
Privacy advocates warn that this policy may violate students’ digital rights and discourage open expression. There is also growing concern that consular officers may misinterpret posts written in non-English languages, including political or cultural content that is harmless but unfamiliar.

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“This move could have a chilling effect on international students,” said a spokesperson from an education advocacy group. “Many will now think twice before sharing opinions online.”

Previously, consular officers could request social media details on a case-by-case basis, but now all applicants must proactively disclose and unlock their profiles during the visa review process.

Delays and Backlogs Add to Student Worries
The new rule comes just after a month-long freeze on student visa interviews was lifted. The pause, which affected thousands of students worldwide, already created significant backlogs for fall 2025 intakes. Stakeholders fear this extra layer of vetting could make things worse.

Colleges and universities in the U.S. have expressed concern over the new procedures. Many say they could deter international students from choosing the U.S., especially when other destinations like Canada, the UK, and Australia are offering more streamlined visa pathways.

As the fall semester approaches, students and institutions alike are urging U.S. authorities to balance security with fairness and avoid harming America’s long-standing reputation as a top destination for global talent.