U.S. Halts New Student Visa Interviews to Expand Social Media Screening Under Trump Directive

The Trump administration has temporarily halted the scheduling of new visa interviews for international students seeking F, M, and J visas, according to a directive issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The move, effective immediately, aims to facilitate the implementation of expanded social media vetting protocols for visa applicants. The pause does not impact existing visa holders or interviews already scheduled, but it has sparked concerns about its potential effects on the U.S. higher education sector, which relies heavily on international students. The decision was first reported by sources within the State Department and has been corroborated. The directive instructs U.S. embassies and consulates to suspend new interview appointments for these visa categories until further guidance is provided. The administration has emphasized that the pause is temporary, intended to allow for the integration of enhanced screening measures, particularly focused on applicants’ social media a...