The US reopens F, M, and J visa interviews and tightens social media scrutiny.
On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) officially reopened interviews for F, M, and J visas and implemented a stricter social media vetting process for all applicants. This announcement was published on the DOS's official website.
🔍 New requirements for social media
According to the announcement:
All applicants for F (academic student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) visas must adjust the privacy settings on all their social media accounts to "public" so that consular officers can review them.
Failure to comply with this requirement may result in visa denial or affect your ability to apply for a visa in the future.
Current situation
After a temporary suspension in late May to implement new screening procedures, U.S. embassies and consulates have begun reopening interview appointments for F, M, and J visas.
"In the digital age, becoming famous on social media can open doors of opportunity, but it can also slam them shut if you're not careful. So, think carefully before posting; a single status update could determine your future studying abroad in the United States!"
