The United States government has halted new student visa appointments worldwide. The move marks a major escalation in the ongoing student visa crackdown. Authorities say the pause is part of a wider plan to strengthen social media checks.
The directive came from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. His memo instructed embassies to cancel any unscheduled student visa interviews. However, students with current appointments can still attend them. The pause will remain in place until new guidance is issued.
This measure follows growing criticism from the administration against elite US universities. Officials argue that campuses have become hotbeds for unchecked antisemitism. They accuse institutions of ignoring hate speech disguised as protest.
President Donald Trump has called for tougher action. His administration wants to increase scrutiny of student and exchange visa applicants. The student visa crackdown now includes plans for enhanced social media vetting.
The State Department has not clarified what the new vetting process will involve. However, recent government statements suggest online content may affect visa outcomes. Authorities plan to assess social media posts for signs of antisemitism or harassment.
Meanwhile, foreign governments are expressing concern. Chinese officials urged the US to respect the rights of international students. China is one of the largest sources of foreign students in the US.
Universities are also under pressure. Many institutions depend on international students for revenue. These students usually pay higher tuition fees than domestic peers.
Some schools now face financial hardship. The government has frozen hundreds of millions of dollars in university funding. One major institution recently lost access to $2.65 billion in federal grants. It also cannot admit foreign students or host researchers under current policy.
A federal judge has blocked that specific restriction, but further legal battles are expected. Protests have already erupted on multiple campuses. At one demonstration, students marched in graduation robes to defend the rights of their international classmates.
The Department of Homeland Security recently said it may deny visas based on online antisemitic behavior. This adds another layer to the student visa crackdown.
Free speech advocates warn the policy could violate constitutional protections. Universities argue the administration is targeting them unfairly. In contrast, federal officials claim they are defending public safety and national values.
As this crackdown continues, more legal and political challenges are likely. International students remain uncertain about their academic future in the US.
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