Islamabad, June 20, 2025: The US State Department has reinstated student visa services for international applicants, introducing a new requirement: all candidates must grant access to their social media profiles.
As reported by the Associated Press, American consular officials will now evaluate posts and messages deemed critical of the United States, including its government, traditions, institutions, or core values.
In a recent announcement, the State Department stated that student visas—previously halted in May—are now being resumed. Nonetheless, candidates who decline to provide their social media access could face disqualification. Authorities mention that refusal to share digital activity may trigger doubts regarding openness.
Last month, the Trump administration paused visa interviews for overseas students. Despite this, a 27-year-old doctoral candidate based in Toronto—holding Chinese nationality and preparing for a U.S. internship later in July—has received an interview slot scheduled for the upcoming week.
With visa services resuming, American embassies and consulates have been instructed to prioritize students accepted at institutions where international attendees make up under 15% of the overall student body.
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According to national education records, more than 200 colleges across the U.S. have foreign student populations exceeding the 15% mark.
Foreign students continue to encounter increased evaluation for multiple reasons. Just a few months earlier, the Trump administration revoked thousands of student visas.
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The State Department highlighted that reviewing online behavior ensures a more comprehensive assessment of individuals wishing to enter the country.
Moreover, the Trump administration has pressed 36 nations to enhance their traveler screening procedures. Non-compliance may result in limitations on their citizens’ ability to travel to the U.S. A formal notification issued by the State Department gave all countries a 60-day period to meet American security standards or potentially face travel prohibitions.
