U.S. Student Visas Resume — With One New Requirement

Good news for prospective students planning to study in the United States: the U.S. Department of State has resumed processing applications for student visas after a temporary pause caused by the implementation of new requirements and internal security procedures. International applicants can now submit their visa documents again — but only if they make their social media profiles publicly accessible.

Visa Services Resume: Background on the Suspension

According to official statements, the temporary suspension was related to technical updates in the security screening system and a review of protocols for handling international student applications. While specific details were not disclosed, U.S. authorities emphasized that the pause was short-term and not politically motivated.

Many universities and applicants expressed concern over the delays, especially as the academic year approaches. However, the Department of State has confirmed that student visa services have returned to regular operation since mid-June.

"We recognize that students experienced uncertainty in recent weeks, and we are working hard to process applications as efficiently as possible," said a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department.

New Requirement: Public Access to Social Media

One of the key changes introduced with the reopening is the requirement for applicants to temporarily grant public access to their social media accounts. This applies to all major student visa categories, including F-1, M-1, and J-1. Under the updated rules, applicants must provide links to their publicly viewable profiles on platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and others.

The stated purpose of this new measure is to enhance security screening procedures. Visa officers will review publicly available content to assess whether an applicant may pose a national security risk or exhibit signs of extremist affiliation.

If an applicant’s profiles are set to private, consular officers may request that privacy settings be adjusted temporarily. Refusal to comply may be considered a negative factor during the visa evaluation process.

Priority Given to Students Applying to Less “International” Institutions

In parallel with reopening the visa process, U.S. authorities have clarified that priority will be given to applicants planning to attend institutions where international students make up no more than 15% of the student body. Such schools represent a minority among accredited U.S. colleges and universities.

In practical terms, this means that applications from students enrolling at less internationally saturated institutions are likely to be reviewed more quickly.

By contrast, the country’s largest and most prestigious universities — including all eight members of the Ivy League, as well as major public institutions like the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Pennsylvania State University — typically have a higher proportion of international students. Applicants to these institutions are less likely to fall under the priority category and may face longer processing times.

What Students Should Do Now?

If you’ve already received your I-20 or DS-2019 form and were planning to apply for a visa, consider the following steps:

• Review your social media accounts. Ensure that profiles are publicly accessible and do not contain content that could be misinterpreted by visa officers.
• Book your visa interview as early as possible, as demand is high in many countries.
• Prepare all required documents, including the DS-160 form, SEVIS fee receipt, and your official letter of admission.
• Stay informed by regularly checking the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country for updates.