Expanded Screening and Social Media Vetting for F, M, and J U.S. Visa Applicants | 2025 Visa Policy Update

On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced a significant policy change affecting international students and exchange visitors applying for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas, with a goal to identify applicants who may be inadmissible to the United States or who may pose a threat to U.S. national security. Applicants must now undergo "a comprehensive and thorough vetting," which includes the evaluation of their social media presence. As part of this comprehensive vetting effort, all visa applicants "will be instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media account profiles to 'public.'”

In addition to these enhanced background checks, there will be increased emphasis on applicants' ability to "credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, including that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms of their admission."

U.S. embassies and consulates will soon resume appointments for F, M, and J applicants under these new standards. These developments will significantly impact international students and exchange visitors preparing for study or programs in the United States. Legal guidance may be helpful in navigating these new requirements. Email us at contact@niwus.com if you have any questions.