US Student Visa Policy Changes Spark Concerns and Uncertainty

People were seen in Harvard Yard on April 15, 2025. The US State Department is restarting student visa applications but will require all applicants to allow government review of their social media.

China responded, emphasizing the mutual benefits of educational cooperation and opposing the politicization of exchanges. The US had previously halted new visa interviews while preparing to expand social media screening.

Chinese visa consultancies reported that some students are choosing alternative destinations due to tightened social media vetting. Chinese students expressed concerns about unclear screening criteria and feeling unwelcome.

Under the new rules, all applications for scholarly exchange visas will be reviewed, with officers looking for any hostility toward the US. Detailed notes and screenshots of applicants' online presences must be taken.

A student reported being asked for social media accounts and found the screening confusing. Visa service agencies noted that the appointment system in China remains closed, and some students are choosing other countries.

During the pandemic, visa applications already required listing many social media accounts, and scrutiny has increased. An education blogger questioned the US's motives.

A professor stated that the US decision was driven by domestic pressure and that the social media screening disregards privacy and politicizes visa standards.