What's The New Social Media Vetting Rule For US Student Visa Applicants
As the United States resumes with their student visa interviews, unlike before, a new requirement is added to the list for the applicants to get approved. The US department, after a pause in the processing, had stated that the applicants will have to unlock their social media accounts for government review.
The consular officers at the time of interview will review posts on social media for any signs of hostility towards the US. The closed and private accounts will be considered as an attempt to hide information and this may end up in additional scrutiny or rejection.
Read also: Bali Volcano Eruption Disrupts Air Travel; Dozens Of Flights Cancelled
According to Politico, the embassies would 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.” Moreover, support for the Hamas militant group is also listed as a specific example.
The procedure will be applied on both new and returning student visa applicants. The cable also instructs officers to be alert to applicants with a record of political activism, particularly if linked to violence or any of the flagged views, and to assess the risk of such behaviour continuing in the U.S.
This effort has come as part of the Trump administration’s plan to tighten immigration security under the Trump administration. Priority scheduling will be given to applicants for J-1 visas and students heading to colleges where foreign enrolment is 15% or less.
Read also: “We Know Khamenei’s Location, Won’t Kill Him .. (Now)”: Trump Threatens Iran
The cable also appears to be the latest salvo in the Trump administration’s effort to punish American colleges and universities for their handling of pro-Palestinian protests on campuses.
The US government had been vetting the social media of persons seeking to immigrate to the United States or obtain a green card for more than a decade. Many critics have argued that the recent Trump crackdown will lead to tremendously negative impact on free speech on campus and the country’s reputation as a place of free expression.
