Social Media Goes Public: US Visa Privacy Rules for Students Take Effect

In a sweeping policy update that has already sparked international debate, the U.S. State Department announced that all applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas—the categories typically issued to international students and exchange visitors—must now set their social media profiles to “public” as part of their visa screening process. The move is part of what officials described as a “comprehensive and thorough vetting” effort to safeguard national security.

The announcement, released on Saturday, clearly signals a new chapter in the way international students are vetted before gaining entry into the United States. Citing national interest and security concerns, the department emphasised that a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and that digital transparency will now play a central role in determining eligibility.

“We use all available information in our visa screening and vetting to identify visa applicants who are inadmissible to the United States, including those who pose a threat to US national security,” the statement read.

New Social Media Requirement Draws Global Attention

Under the new US visa privacy rules for students, applicants are required to switch their social media accounts—including platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok—to a public setting. This measure, according to the State Department, is designed to allow consular officers to conduct an extensive review of an applicant’s online presence as part of the security vetting process.

“Our overseas posts will resume scheduling F, M, and J non-immigrant visa applications soon. Applicants should check the relevant embassy or consulate website for appointment availability,” the announcement continued.

This policy shift has raised concern among student advocacy groups and legal experts alike. Critics argue it could deter applicants from exercising freedom of expression online, especially in politically sensitive contexts. However, the U.S. government remains firm in its position.

“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision. The United States must be vigilant… to ensure that those applying for admission into the United States do not intend to harm Americans or our national interests,” the department reiterated.

A Troubling Incident Sparks Outrage

The new regulation comes on the heels of a disturbing incident at Newark Airport that has stirred outrage across the Indian and Indian-American communities. On June 9, a young Indian student was allegedly detained, handcuffed, and deported back to India under harrowing circumstances. Videos and photos posted by Kunal Jain, a respected Indian-American entrepreneur and president of HealthBots AI, show the student pinned to the airport floor, sobbing uncontrollably.

“He came chasing dreams, not causing harm,” Jain posted on X. “As an NRI, I felt helpless and heartbroken. This is a human tragedy.”

The incident has raised critical questions about how the new US visa privacy rules for students might translate into real-life interactions at points of entry, especially for first-time travelers unfamiliar with the rigid U.S. immigration protocols.

Jain has since appealed to the Indian Embassy in the U.S. to investigate the deportation and intervene to protect other students from such treatment. The post has garnered widespread attention online, with many calling for both governments to ensure the dignity and rights of international students are upheld.

Social Media: A Message to All Aspiring Students

While the United States continues to reaffirm its commitment to welcoming “legitimate travelers,” this latest directive serves as a stern reminder: transparency is no longer optional.

A post made earlier this month by the U.S. Embassy in India stated, “There is no right to visit the United States. We cannot and will not tolerate illegal entry, abuse of visas, or the violation of U.S. law.”

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