US embassies, consulates halt student visa appointments

• The move follows Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s cable to global missions on social media screening.

• The new emphasis on vetting applicants’ posts on social media platforms could delay visa issuance, particularly for Indians, who constitute the largest group of foreign students in the U.S.

• The U.S. Embassy spokesperson stated that visa applicants can continue to submit applications, but consular offices will adjudicate cases in full compliance with U.S. law.

• The cable dated May 26 ordered consular sections not to add any additional student or exchange visitor visa appointment capacity.

• The pause on student visa appointments raises questions over admissions for Indian and other international students for the new term beginning in September 2025.

• The enhanced screening of foreign students in the U.S. is the latest concern for students, following the U.S. government’s “catch and revoke” policy to deport students for their writings, protest presence, or legal misdemeanours.