US Suspends Student Visa Appointments Amid Social Media Vetting

The Trump administration has ordered a global pause on scheduling new student visa interviews (F, M, and J categories) at all U.S. embassies and consulates as it plans to expand social media vetting for applicants, according to a directive signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This freeze suspends new visa appointments and cancels unbooked slots, prioritizing services for U.S. citizens and immigrant visas while scrutinizing applicants' online activities for perceived security risks or hostile attitudes, including potential support for antisemitic terrorism or pro-Palestine demonstrations. The policy shift is part of a broader crackdown on immigration and foreign students, including threats to revoke Harvard University's ability to enroll international students and efforts to deport those involved in protests. The move has raised concerns among U.S. universities about its economic impact, as international students contribute billions annually and support academic programs, as well as fears about academic freedom and America's global reputation. While the administration describes the pause as temporary to implement enhanced vetting measures, the lack of clarity on criteria and the broad scope of social media surveillance have sparked backlash from educational and immigrant communities. This development marks a significant tightening of visa policies amid heightened geopolitical tensions and domestic political priorities.