The Trump administration has ordered U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to stop scheduling new visa appointments for foreign students and exchange visitors. This decision comes as the State Department prepares to implement expanded social media vetting for student visa applicants.
According to an internal cable first reported by Politico and seen by Reuters, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructed diplomatic missions to pause scheduling F, M, and J visa appointments until new guidelines are issued. The directive affects all non-immigrant visa applicants under student and exchange visitor categories.
New Social Media Vetting Rules in Progress
The cable states, “The Department is conducting a review of existing operations and processes for screening and vetting of student and exchange visitor (F, M, J) visa applicants. Based on that review, plans to issue guidance on expanded social media vetting for all such applicants.”
Until the new vetting policy is finalized, only previously scheduled appointments will proceed under existing rules. Open slots that haven’t been filled are to be withdrawn.
Focus Shifts to U.S. Citizens and Immigrant Visas
Consular sections have been advised to prioritize services for U.S. citizens, immigrant visa processing, and fraud prevention. Additionally, the cable highlights the need for embassies to consider the extra workload and resource needs posed by the anticipated changes in screening procedures.
A senior State Department official confirmed the authenticity of the cable. However, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment specifically on the memo but emphasized the government’s commitment to using “every tool” to ensure national security during visa screening.
Harvard Protests Erupt in Response
The decision has sparked nationwide concern, especially among academic institutions. Several hundred protesters, including Harvard University students and faculty, gathered on campus to demonstrate in solidarity with international students. The protesters also voiced opposition to the Trump administration’s efforts to cut federal funding for Harvard.
Deportation Concerns Over Political Views
In a related development, Trump administration officials have indicated that foreign students and green card holders could face deportation over public support for Palestinians or criticism of Israel’s actions in the ongoing Gaza conflict. Officials claim such expressions pose a threat to U.S. foreign policy and label them as potentially pro-Hamas.
What It Means for International Students
The pause in visa appointments and the upcoming vetting measures are expected to impact thousands of students planning to begin their studies in the United States. Universities across the country are urging the administration to reconsider, citing the vital academic and economic contributions of international students.
