The United States has officially lifted the visa ban on foreign students, according to reports from American media outlets. The U.S. State Department announced that the previously suspended student visa process is now being resumed.
However, under the revised guidelines, all applicants must now provide access to their social media accounts for government review.
The department clarified that authorities will examine students’ social media activity thoroughly. Any posts that are perceived as opposing the United States, its government, cultural values, institutions, or foundational principles could impact the visa decision.
According to officials, the student visa processing pause, initiated in May, has now been formally revoked. Nevertheless, new applicants will be required to make their social media profiles public. Refusal to comply may lead to the rejection of their visa reconsideration request.
The report also mentions that the Trump administration had temporarily halted the scheduling of new visa interviews for international students. At the same time, it had been preparing to enhance screening of their online behavior.
