ISLAMABAD: The Trump administration has ordered US diplomatic missions abroad to stop scheduling new visa appointments for student and exchange visitor applicants as part of an expanded social media vetting review, according to an internal State Department cable obtained by Reuters.
The move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration controls and scrutinize foreign students seeking entry to the United States.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed consular sections to halt the scheduling of new F, M, and J visa appointments pending updated guidance on social media screening.
However, appointments already booked will continue under current rules.
The State Department plans to issue new procedures once the review is complete, focusing on enhanced social media vetting for all student and exchange visitor applicants.
Impact on Visa Services and University Enrollments
The expanded vetting requirements will require consular offices to adjust operations and resources to manage the increased scrutiny of applicants’ online activities.
Consular sections have been advised to prioritize services for US citizens, immigrant visas, and fraud prevention during this period.
The administration’s tougher stance comes amid growing concerns over foreign influence and national security.
This policy has also had a direct effect on American universities.
For example, the administration recently moved to revoke Harvard University’s authorization to enroll international students, impacting approximately 6,800 foreign students—nearly 27% of Harvard’s student body. Critics argue that the administration’s actions threaten academic freedom and undermine the country’s reputation as a global education hub.
Controversies and Criticisms
Trump administration officials have justified the crackdown by linking some foreign students and green card holders to political activities viewed as hostile to US interests, particularly regarding support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel’s Gaza conflict.
However, civil liberties groups have condemned these measures as violations of free speech protections guaranteed by the First Amendment.
Cases such as a Turkish student detained for criticizing her university’s stance on the Gaza war highlight concerns over the politicization of immigration enforcement.
The administration maintains that national security interests necessitate rigorous screening but faces ongoing legal and public pushback.
