The U.S. government has resumed student visas to foreigners with a new rule requiring applicants to share their social media account information.
This means that anyone applying for a student visa will need to provide access to their social media profiles as part of the application process.
According to the U.S. Department of State, all applicants will need to make their social media profiles public so that officials can review their online activities as part of the visa application process. This decision comes after a pause on new visa interviews for foreign students that began in May.
A spokesperson for the State Department emphasized that obtaining a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. They stated, “We use all available information to screen and vet visa applicants to ensure that they do not pose a threat to U.S. national security.”
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Under the new guidelines, all student and exchange visitor applicants in specific visa categories (F, M, and J) will be thoroughly vetted, including their online presence. The department is looking to enhance its efforts to protect national security and public safety.
The State Department plans to begin scheduling interviews for these student visas soon. They recommended that applicants check the website of their local U.S. embassy or consulate for details on appointment availability.
In their statement, they highlighted that every visa application is a matter of national security. They want to ensure that those trying to enter the U.S. are here for legitimate reasons and do not intend to harm anyone or threaten the country’s interests.
Currently, Nigeria leads Africa in sending students to the United States, with approximately 20,000 Nigerian students enrolled, making it the 17th largest source of international students globally.
