US Halts Student Visa Interviews Globally Amid Planned Social Media Crackdown
NewDelhi — In a sweeping decision that could impact thousands of international students, the United States has ordered an immediate halt to new student visa interviews at its embassies and consulates worldwide. The directive, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is part of a broader push by the Trump administration to expand social media vetting of visa applicants, particularly those seeking F, M, and J category visas.
According to a diplomatic cable obtained by Politico, all US embassies have been instructed not to schedule any additional interviews for student and exchange visitor visas until further notice. The move is reportedly linked to ongoing discussions within the administration about enhancing security checks, with a particular focus on applicants' social media activity.
“Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consular sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa appointment capacity until further guidance is issued,” Secretary Rubio stated in the directive.
Scheduled Interviews Will Proceed
The order applies only to new appointments. Student visa interviews that have already been scheduled will continue as planned. However, this freeze on new slots has sparked concern among international students and universities in the US, many of whom are preparing for the fall 2025 intake.
Sources familiar with the matter suggest the move is part of the administration’s broader strategy to tighten immigration controls, particularly in light of recent controversies surrounding pro-Palestinian demonstrations on US campuses.
Focus on Anti-Semitism and National Security
Although the official cable does not specify the exact criteria for the expanded social media screening, it alludes to ongoing efforts to curb what officials describe as rising anti-Semitic sentiments linked to foreign student groups. The Trump administration has been vocal in linking certain student movements, especially those involving pro-Palestine protests, to a broader ideological threat.
Previously, social media vetting was limited to students actively participating in such demonstrations. This latest move appears to mark a shift towards universal screening, sparking renewed debate over privacy rights and the politicization of student immigration.
Global Implications
This policy shift is expected to impact students from a wide range of countries, including India, China, and the Middle East—nations that make up a significant portion of international enrollments in the US. American universities, many already grappling with declining international admissions, are bracing for further disruptions.
Education policy experts warn the visa freeze could damage the US's reputation as a global education hub.
“This decision sends a chilling message to international students. It undermines confidence in the US higher education system’s openness and fairness,” said a senior administrator at a leading US university.
Awaiting Further Guidance
Diplomatic sources indicate that embassies are awaiting additional instructions from Washington on the implementation and scope of the expanded social media checks. Until then, consular officers have been directed to halt any expansion in visa interview scheduling for students and exchange visitors.
As of now, the State Department has not issued a public statement detailing the rationale behind the new restrictions or the expected timeline for resumption.