On June 18, 2025, the U.S. State Department released an announcement on expanded screening and vetting for visa applicants. This expanded vetting includes all F, M and J visa applicants.

Please read the announcement carefully on the types of content that officials are screening for, and take note of the following key points:

The vetting process of all applicants will be thorough and include review of online presence.
Your social media account privacy settings should be adjusted to “public.”
All applicants should credibly establish their eligibility for the visa sought, noting that they intend to engage in activities consistent with the terms for their admission.
What you may experience
Before, during and after your visa appointment, as well as during your travels through U.S. ports of entry, officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State may review your social media, messaging apps and other online places where you share content. U.S. officials may look at your posts, comments, photos and friends list. They may also search your phone, tablet, laptop or other devices.

Understand that failure to comply with any digital screening process may result in visa or entry denial. As such, we strongly encourage you to follow the guidance provided by the U.S. Department of State.