On June 18, the Department of State ordered U.S. embassies and consulates to resume scheduling new visa interviews for student and exchange visitor applicants (F, J, and M visas) after a worldwide pause that began in late May. Reports indicate visa appointments may become available in many locations beginning June 26.
The new policy instructs officials to follow enhanced protocols for screening visa applicants’ online presence and social media activity. These measures apply to all new and returning students and scholars.
Be aware that you will be asked to adjust the privacy settings on your social media profiles to “public” to support this process.
Expect Delays
Interview timing and availability could vary by location due to the new protocols and high demand. Delays are likely.
A State Department cable reportedly gives expedited appointment priority to students attending institutions where international students make up less than 15 percent of enrollment. Cornell’s international population exceeds this threshold, so additional delays may affect some students. Read our advice on Visa Delays.
International Services continues to monitor this situation closely, and we are here to support you.
Digital Screening FAQ
What are officials looking for?
A State Department cable reportedly directs officials to review applicants’ online histories for “any indications of hostility towards the citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles of the United States.” Embassies are asked to flag any “advocacy for, aid, or support for foreign terrorists and other threats to U.S. national security” and “support for unlawful antisemitic harassment or violence.” Past political activism could also be grounds for a visa denial.
How will the screening be carried out?
The State Department cable mentions using online search engines, social media accounts, and databases.
Should I delete my social media accounts?
This is not an easy question to answer. Keeping accounts live might pose a risk if officials take a broad view of the new policy, but deleting them could raise questions. Accounts set to “private” may indicate “evasiveness or otherwise call into question the applicant’s credibility,” the State Department cable said. We recommend consulting an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your digital footprint.
