NEW DELHI – The United States Embassy in India has directed all applicants for student and exchange visitor visas to set their social media profiles to public, citing enhanced scrutiny measures under new visa processing rules.
In a public advisory posted on its official social media channels, the embassy stated that applicants for F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange visitor) visa categories must ensure that their online profiles are visible during the application process. The move, according to the embassy, is aimed at assisting consular officers in verifying the identity and background of visa seekers more effectively.
The updated guidance follows a broader State Department policy focused on increasing vetting of foreign nationals entering the United States, especially in light of rising global security concerns. Visa officers will now reportedly consider social media content—including political views, affiliations, and public behavior—as part of the admissibility assessment.
The embassy also announced a temporary pause in new interview appointments for F, M, and J visa categories to allow embassies worldwide to implement the new social media screening tools.
The directive has drawn criticism from student groups, civil rights advocates, and legal experts who warn that such requirements may infringe upon privacy rights and deter free expression. Many applicants have already begun sanitizing or deleting past posts, fearing that political commentary or activism may lead to visa denials.
Immigration attorneys have also cautioned that even minimal or inactive social media presence could raise red flags, potentially triggering additional screening or delays. The lack of clarity around what type of content could be deemed problematic has only added to the anxiety among prospective students.
Despite the backlash, US officials maintain that the measure is intended solely to ensure national security and not to target individuals based on their views. Students planning to travel for the upcoming academic sessions are advised to carefully review their digital footprints and maintain transparency during the visa process.
The embassy has yet to confirm how long the social media review requirement will remain in place or whether it will apply to other visa categories in the future.
Reported by PakTribune News Desk
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