U.S. State Department Enforces Stricter Visa Vetting Measures for International Students.
By: dehandsomeblogger In a significant policy shift, the United States Department of State has introduced enhanced screening procedures for nonimmigrant visa applicants under the F, M, and J classifications primarily targeting international students and exchange program participants. This move is part of a broader effort to fortify national security by scrutinizing the online behavior of prospective visitors. According to a formal announcement by the State Department, visa applicants will now be required to make all their social media profiles publicly visible. This expanded vetting measure allows U.S. consular officers to assess the applicants’ online activities and affiliations in detail before granting entry clearance. The guidance takes effect immediately, with all overseas U.S. embassies and consulates instructed to resume F, M, and J visa scheduling under the new directives. Under the updated screening process, all applicants for F (academic students), M (vocational s...