The United States has officially resumed its suspended processing of student visa applications for foreign nationals, but with a new policy that requires all applicants to grant access to their social media profiles as part of an expanded vetting process.
The U.S. Department of State, in a statement released Tuesday, confirmed that individuals applying under the F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa classifications—which cover academic and exchange programs—must now make their online presence publicly viewable to American authorities during the visa review process.
“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” the statement said. “To strengthen our screening procedures, the Department will conduct a comprehensive vetting process, including the review of applicants’ social media accounts.”
The policy marks a significant shift in the U.S. visa process, which previously collected only a limited history of social media activity from applicants. Under the new guidelines, students must adjust their privacy settings on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and others, allowing full visibility during screening.
The move follows a temporary halt announced in May that paused the scheduling of new interviews for international students. That suspension has now been lifted, with the department stating that U.S. embassies and consulates around the world will soon resume scheduling appointments for F, M, and J visa applicants.
Applicants are advised to consult the website of their respective U.S. embassies or consulates for the latest appointment availability.
While officials emphasize the need for vigilance, privacy and civil liberties groups have raised concerns over potential overreach, questioning the efficacy and fairness of using social media as a vetting tool for educational visas.
“This is not about restricting access to education,” the State Department clarified. “A visa is a privilege, not a right. The United States must ensure that individuals entering the country do not pose a threat to national security or public safety.”
Nigeria remains Africa’s leading source of international students in the U.S., with over 20,000 Nigerian students currently enrolled in American institutions. Globally, Nigeria ranks 17th in international student representation, according to recent data from the U.S. Department of Education.
The Department reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating legitimate educational exchange, but stressed that security remains the top priority: “We welcome international students who meet our requirements—but under no illusions. The rules will be strictly enforced.”
