U.S. suspends student visa processing under Trump’s directive to expand social media vetting, raising concerns among international students.
The U.S. Department of State has suspended all student and exchange visa appointments following a directive from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signaling a new phase in the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. An internal cable obtained by AFP outlines the move, which comes amid efforts to expand the vetting of applicants’ social media activity.
The order, issued Tuesday, instructs embassies and consulates worldwide to halt additional visa interview appointments until further guidance is provided.
Visa Hold on Thousands Sparks Alarm in Academic Circles
International students, a critical revenue source for American higher education, are again in the crosshairs. The recent suspension follows earlier moves under the Trump administration, including the cancellation of hundreds of visas and reported efforts to bar prestigious institutions like Harvard from admitting non-U.S. citizens.
The official memo hints that this pause may be temporary, suggesting further instructions will be delivered “in the coming days.” However, visa processing delays have been a longstanding challenge at U.S. consular missions.
Rubio Defends Vetting, Cites National Security Concerns
Speaking on the matter, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment directly on the cable but underscored the administration’s national security priorities.
“We take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country,” Bruce said. “The goal is to ensure that anyone entering the U.S. is aware of the law, harbors no criminal intent, and contributes positively—whether for a short visit or a long-term stay.”
Asked whether students could expect timely visa approvals ahead of the fall academic term, Bruce responded cautiously: “Follow the normal process and expect scrutiny.”
Thousands of Visas Already Revoked, Rubio Confirms
Secretary Rubio, speaking before a Senate panel last week, revealed that “thousands” of visas have been rescinded since President Trump assumed office on January 20. He invoked a little-known provision of U.S. law that grants the Secretary of State authority to revoke visas if an individual is considered a threat to foreign policy interests.
While Rubio has not named all affected groups, the most prominent targets so far have been students engaged in political activism, particularly those involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations
Free Speech, Anti-Semitism Allegations Spark Global Outcry
Several of the visa cancellations have been tied to accusations of anti-Semitism—a claim denied by many of the students involved. Critics argue the actions constitute an attack on free speech and academic independence.
Legal experts and human rights groups have raised alarms over the precedent being set. “This is not just about immigration,” one legal analyst told Maple News Wire. “It’s about the right to dissent and the erosion of democratic protections.”
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