The US is pleased to announce the resumption of processing student visa applications for foreign nationals, with new rules regarding social media requirements.
Resumption of Visa Processing
The US Department of State has officially announced the resumption of processing student visa applications, which had been temporarily suspended in May 2025. All applicants under the F (academic), M (vocational), and J (exchange) categories must now undergo more intensive screening.
New Vetting Measures
According to the announcement, all applicants are now required to provide their social media profiles for verification. 'The US is resuming the visa application process for student visas, but will now require monitoring of applicants' social media activities,' the statement said. This new requirement is part of efforts to ensure national security.
Reactions to Measures and Consequences
Nigeria, as the largest source of students to the US from Africa, welcomes the resumption of visa processing as a significant opportunity for its 20,000 students. However, the social media vetting measures raise concerns among the international community, with China urging the US to protect the rights of students from abroad.
The resumption of student visa applications with new requirements highlights the US's commitment to enhancing national security, although it raises questions about the potential impact of these measures on international relations and educational exchanges.
