US Halts Student Visa Appointments Amid Controversial Social Media Vetting

Washington, D.C. — The Trump administration has ordered U.S. embassies worldwide to stop scheduling appointments for student visas as it prepares to enhance social media vetting for applicants. This directive, communicated through an official memo, indicates significant implications for embassies and consulates regarding student and foreign exchange visas.

This order aligns with a broader crackdown by President Donald Trump on what he perceives as left-wing bias at elite universities, which he claims have not adequately addressed antisemitism during pro-Palestinian protests.

In response, a Chinese official emphasized the need for the U.S. to protect the rights of international students, noting that hundreds of thousands of Chinese scholars are currently studying in America. Concerns are growing among universities that depend heavily on foreign tuition.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated, “We take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country, and we’re going to continue to do that.” The memo clearly instructed U.S. embassies to eliminate any unfilled appointment slots for student visa seekers, while existing appointments will remain valid.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that this suspension would last “until further guidance is issued.” The memo also hinted at an upcoming expansion of social media screening for all student visa applications, though specific details were not provided.

This new requirement follows previous enhancements to student social media vetting, which were reported by the Guardian in March. These changes have surfaced amid growing concerns about pro-Palestinian demonstrations on U.S. campuses.

In April, the Department of Homeland Security stated that antisemitic behavior online could lead to visa denials. This policy shift, described by critics as a threat to free speech, also signals an aggressive approach towards foreign students, especially those engaged in advocacy.

Rubio emphasized that under Trump’s leadership, there would be strict measures against visas for Chinese students connected with the Communist Party. He characterized the new rules as vital for American interests.

Additionally, the suspension of visas also targets foreign students participating in pro-Palestinian protests, with many facing revocation over minor infractions, and concerns have been raised about due process for these students.