Starting June 25, U.S. visa applicants for higher education and cultural exchange programs will need to disclose social media accounts.
UNITED STATES, June 25 – Young people aspiring to study in the United States are facing a new hurdle. Consular authorities now require a list of social media accounts from applicants seeking F, M, and J visas, aimed at higher education and cultural exchange programs.
This digital screening procedure, announced by Secretary of State marco Rubio on June 25, could impact over 1.1 million students worldwide. Consular services will scrutinize digital activity for content showing hostility towards American society or institutions, or support for violent or discriminatory acts, including anti-Semitism.
Digital Vetting Added to Process
This new requirement is an addition to existing financial and academic checks, not a replacement. Public photos, messages, and subscriptions from the provided social media accounts will be analyzed. Applicants who refuse or fail to provide this details risk their applications being deemed incomplete or suspicious.
academic mobility Choices may Shift
With several nations tightening entry requirements, this added layer of scrutiny might deter some African students from pursuing American campuses. While the United States remains a top destination for international talent, this policy could redirect academic mobility towards countries perceived as more accommodating.
