US Student Visa Update 2025: Social Media Screening Now Mandatory for F, M, J Applicants

The United States has announced it will resume processing student visas for F, M, and J categories, but with a major new requirement: applicants must now make their social media accounts publicly accessible for government review.

Key Changes to Visa Screening

The State Department, which had temporarily halted student visas in May 2024 to strengthen vetting, confirmed the updated policy in an official statement:

“We will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications.”

• Social media must be set to “public” for review by consular officers.
• Officers will scan for posts against U.S. interests, including criticism of government, culture, or institutions.
• The policy aims to identify security risks while resuming visa processing.

Why the Stricter Rules?

The State Department emphasized:

“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. We must ensure applicants do not intend to harm Americans or national interests.”

Critics argue the move invades privacy, but officials insist it balances open access with security.

What Applicants Must Do

• Adjust privacy settings on all social media (Facebook, X, Instagram, etc.) to public before applying.
• Check embassy websites for appointment openings, as processing resumes.
• Prepare for extended screening, including potential interviews.

Visa Categories Affected

• F-1: Academic students
• M-1: Vocational students
• J-1: Exchange visitors

Timeline & Next Steps

• Applications reopen imminently (monitor local consulate updates).
• Delays expected due to enhanced vetting.
• Denials possible if social media raises red flags.

Advice for Students:

• Audit your online presence for controversial content.
• Gather academic/financial documents early.
• Consult immigration experts if unsure about eligibility.

“The U.S. welcomes legitimate students but will not compromise on security,” the State Department reiterated.