The State Department has announced an expansion in the screening and vetting processes for visa applicants, emphasizing national security and public safety. According to the department, "A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right," highlighting the importance of maintaining stringent standards.
The department will utilize all available information to screen and vet visa applicants, particularly those who might pose threats to U.S. national security. The new guidelines require comprehensive vetting of student and exchange visitor applicants under F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications. This includes evaluating their online presence.
Applicants for these visas must adjust their social media privacy settings to "public" to facilitate this vetting process. Overseas posts are expected to resume scheduling applications for these visa categories soon, with applicants advised to check embassy or consulate websites for appointment availability.
The State Department stresses that each visa adjudication is considered a national security decision. The aim is to ensure that individuals applying do not intend harm to Americans or U.S. interests and that they meet all eligibility requirements for the visas sought.
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