US Announces Stronger Social Media Vetting Policy for Student Visas

The State Department temporarily paused student visa interviews late last month as it considered adding social media vetting to the application process.

Chinese citizens wait to submit their visa applications at the US Embassy in Beijing on May 2, 2012. Mark Ralston/AFP/GettyImages

The State Department announced new vetting requirements on June 18, including social media screening for all student visa applicants.

“The State Department is committed to protecting our nation and our citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process. A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right,” the State Department said in a press release.