The U.S. Department of State Temporarily Suspends Student and Exchange Visa (F, M, J) Interviews Worldwide.

A number of reputable international news agencies, including The Washington Post , Associated Press , TIME , and The Times (UK), have simultaneously reported that the U.S. Department of State has issued an internal directive requiring all U.S. Embassies and Consulates to temporarily suspend scheduling new appointments for applicants for F, M, and J visas – which apply to international students and exchange programs.

This move is being made to prepare for expanding the mandatory social media vetting process to all applicants under the three aforementioned visa categories. According to an excerpt from an internal memo leaked and quoted by The Washington Post , the U.S. State Department stated:

“The Department is reviewing current practices and procedures related to the vetting and screening of applicants for student and exchange visas (F, M, J), and based on the results of this review, will issue guidance to expand social media vetting to all applicants in this category.”

This suspension is effective immediately , however, it does not apply to applicants who have already scheduled interview appointments . The specific duration of the suspension, as well as any exceptions (if any), including visa renewal applications or those exempt from the interview, are currently unclear.

Instructions for affected applicants

Individuals preparing to apply for a student or exchange visa should proactively take the following steps:

• Regularly check the official website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to submit your application for updates on appointment schedules;
• Contact the international student office at the school where you received your offer letter for assistance with confirmation letters, guidance on postponing your enrollment date, or transferring semesters.
• Be cautious when using social media because the social media screening process will be significantly tightened;

• Keep all documents and correspondence related to the school and consular office on file, in case you need proof in emergency situations regarding your immigration status.

Explanation of F, M, and J visa types.

• Visa F : For students studying at academic educational institutions (colleges, universities, intensive English programs).
• Visa M : For students studying vocational, technical, or non-academic training programs.
• Visa J : For cultural and academic exchange programs, including exchange students, interns, teachers, lecturers, researchers, and sponsored international exchange programs.

This is a significant development that directly impacts hundreds of thousands of international students planning to come to the United States this upcoming semester. Experts recommend that applicants closely monitor updates from diplomatic agencies and schools to plan accordingly.