The State Department has announced an expansion of its screening and vetting process for visa applicants. This measure aims to enhance national security and public safety by thoroughly assessing individuals seeking entry into the United States. The department emphasizes that obtaining a U.S. visa is considered a privilege rather than a right.
The updated guidance mandates comprehensive vetting procedures, which will include evaluating the online presence of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications. To aid this process, applicants are required to set their social media profiles to "public."
According to the State Department, "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 U.S. national security."
The department also mentioned that overseas posts would soon resume scheduling appointments for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas. Applicants are advised to visit the respective embassy or consulate websites for appointment availability.
Highlighting the importance of each decision made during visa adjudication, the statement added: "Every visa adjudication is a national security decision." It stressed that vigilance is necessary throughout the issuance process to ensure that applicants do not intend harm towards Americans or compromise national interests. Furthermore, it is crucial for applicants to convincingly demonstrate their eligibility for the desired visa and their intent to engage in activities aligned with their admission terms.