In a significant tightening of visa rules, the U.S. government has announced it will screen the social media accounts of all F, M, and J category non-immigrant visa applicants - primarily international students, trainees, and exchange visitors. The move is aimed at enhancing national security by identifying individuals who may pose a threat before they enter the country.

According to officials, all publicly available social media data will be analyzed during the visa vetting process. This includes reviewing past posts, associations, and online behavior to assess if the applicant is "inadmissible" to the United States. The policy underscores growing concerns over digital footprints and their role in immigration and security decisions.

Critics argue the measure could lead to privacy violations and overreach, while supporters say it’s necessary to prevent misuse of U.S. visas for extremist or unlawful purposes. For prospective students and exchange visitors, this signals a clear warning: your online presence could now impact your U.S. visa approval.