US Suspends Student Visas amid Stricter Social Media Checks

The United States has temporarily halted the processing of student visas as part of a broader effort to intensify social media scrutiny for international applicants. According to an internal State Department cable, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio directed the suspension on Tuesday, in line with President Donald Trump's policies.

This new directive marks another step in the administration's ongoing crackdown on international students, who represent a crucial revenue stream for American universities. The order, seen by AFP, instructs US embassies and consulates to halt all new student and exchange visa appointments until new instructions are provided.

The cable indicates that the State Department intends to issue updated procedures concerning expanded social media vetting for all such visa applications. While the suspension might be short-lived with embassies expected to receive updated guidance soon the delay adds to existing backlogs at US consular offices.

State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce declined to comment directly on the directive but emphasized the importance of thoroughly screening all visa applicants. She noted that both President Trump and Secretary Rubio aim to ensure that all visitors understand and respect US laws, pose no security risks, and contribute positively during their stay.

When asked whether prospective students could expect to receive visas in time for the fall semester, Bruce advised applicants to follow standard procedures and be prepared for detailed vetting.

Rubio recently told the Senate that he had revoked thousands of visas since Trump assumed office on January 20. He has invoked a seldom-used legal provision allowing the Secretary of State to bar foreign nationals whose actions are considered contrary to US foreign policy interests.

Notably, several of the revoked visas belonged to students involved in activism related to Gaza. These individuals were accused by the Trump administration of promoting anti-Semitic views, allegations that many of them strongly deny.