What is social media screening and is it new?
Social media screening, or vetting, is not a new process. In May 2019, the US updated its visa application rules, making it mandatory for all non-immigrant and immigrant visa applicants to provide details of their social media handles and identifiers.What qualifies as a social media handle or identifier?
A social media “handle” or “identifier” refers to any name used by the individual on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The updated visa application forms list the specific platforms for which identifiers must be provided.
The rule specifies that consular officers cannot deny a visa based on race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, political views, gender, or sexual orientation. The collection of social media identifiers is consistent with this.
Why is the US increasing social media checks for student visas?
“We take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country, and we’re going to continue to do that. Again, whether they be student or if you’re a tourist who needs a visa, we’re going to be looking at you,” US Department of State spokesperson Tammy Bruce said during a press conference on May 27.
She added that the objective is to ensure that individuals entering the US understand the laws, have no criminal intent, and contribute positively during their stay, regardless of their duration.
Can you still apply for a US student visa?
A US embassy spokesperson told CNBC-TV18 that while the Department of State does not comment on internal matters, visa applicants may continue submitting their applications.
What should Indian students planning to study in the US do?
According to educational consultant Viral Doshi, while US embassies have paused new visa appointments, those with scheduled appointments can go ahead as planned.
He estimates that around 50–60% of students planning to start courses in August–September have already completed the visa process. However, those who have not yet scheduled appointments for September intake may face delays.
Doshi said the issue is likely to be resolved soon, as the US also benefits from foreign students. If delays continue, students may defer their intake to January or consider taking a gap year.
Alternatives include studying in the UK, Singapore, or India. The US remains the top choice for Indian students, with about 60–70% choosing it, while 20–30% opt for the UK or Canada, Doshi added.
If the US doesn’t work out, students can also consider colleges in the UK and Singapore besides India.
The bigger concern, he says, is that barely 50% of students are securing internships or jobs in the US, even as the cost of education ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 per year.
