The United States has announced that it will resume processing visa applications for international students.
Gatekeepers News reports that the State Department made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday.
As part of revised requirements, applicants must make their social media accounts publicly accessible for thorough background checks.
The State Department noted that failing to adjust privacy settings to public may be interpreted as an attempt to conceal information and could negatively affect the applicant’s visa application.
The statement reads, “Our overseas posts will resume scheduling F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa applications soon.”
“Applicants should check the relevant embassy or consulate website for appointment availability.”
“Under new guidance, 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.”
“To facilitate this vetting, all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas will be instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to ‘public’.”
“The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans and our national interests, and that all applicants credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, including that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms for their admission.”
