Tag: Student Visa

New Student Visa Social Media Policy

New Student Visa Social Media Policy Announcement by the US Embassy in Bern.

The United States (U.S.) Embassy in Bern recently posted this graphic on their social medial noting its new student visa social media policy.

On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced that interviews for student visas (F (academic), M (vocational), and J (exchange)) would resume globally; however, the return of interviews comes with significantly stricter rules regarding applicants’ social media.

Timeline of the New Student Visa Social Media Policy under the Trump Administration

  • May 27, 2025: The Department of State ordered a halt on scheduling new F, M, and J visa interviews worldwide to implement expanded social media vetting procedures.
  • June 18, 2025: A memo mandated resumed visa appointments, but only after global posts incorporated new social media and online‑presence reviews into their procedures. Consular offices were advised to balance interview volume with deeper vetting workloads.

What Does this Mean for Students?

According to the guidance:

  • Applicants must fully disclose social media history, listing all platforms used over the past five years on Form DS‑160, including public and private accounts.
  • Students have been asked to set their privacy setting to public: Student have been asked to set their social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, etc.) to public so they can be screened.
  • Consular officers have been instructed to flag signs of:
    • Hostility to U.S. citizens, culture, government, or principles
    • Support for designated terrorist organizations or antisemitic violence
    • Political activism with potential for disruption

If red flags are found, even from old posts, the visa may be denied or require a follow‑up interview

Criticism and Concerns over the New Student Visa Social Media Policy

While some welcome the reopening of visa interviews, several concerns have emerged:

  • Privacy advocates warn that forced social media disclosure and profiling based on political views could chill free speech and academic freedom.
  • International education professionals fear the public‑access requirement and heavy vetting could deter global talent and negatively affect U.S. higher‑ed’s reputation.
  • Practical concerns: With roughly 446,000 visas issued in 2023, consular officials warn the extra workload could slow processing and reduce appointment capacity.

General Advice for Students

If you’re preparing to apply for an F, M, or J visa this summer or fall:

  1. Complete DS‑160 fully, including listing all social media accounts from the last five years.
  2. Make profiles public or be prepared to show posts during your interview.
  3. Review your posts now to ensure that nothing can be interpreted as hostile, extremist, or violent.
  4. Stay alert to possible follow‑up requests or added interviews.

 Final Thoughts

The reopening of student visa interviews marks a significant step in welcoming international students back to the U.S.; however, it also introduces a new era of scrutiny, with applicants facing unprecedented transparency requirements.

For future international students, navigating the complexities of the online review process is now part of the journey. Remaining aware of what will be reviewed and responsibly managing your digital footprint can make all the difference in putting your best foot forward.

If you are interested in applying for a student visa, please do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation. You may register for a consultation by calling 970-680-1223/+41 (0)78 248 26 28 or scheduling online. Our U.S. immigration attorneys are licensed to practice immigration law in all 50 states and at consulates and embassies all over the world.

**Please note this is not legal advice and engagement with this post does not create an attorney/client privilege. For specifically tailored legal advice, schedule a consultation.

Current as of June 23, 2025

How to Extend a J-1 Visa

J-1 visas are cultural exchange visas, which allow visa holders a unique opportunity to participate in educational and cultural exchange programs in the United States; however, sometimes the visa holder wants to stay longer than their expiration date would allow. Fortunately, there are options available to extend your J-1 visa, allowing you to continue your experience in the United States while also making you compliant with US immigration laws.

What are J-1 Visas?

J-1 visas cover a variety of cultural exchange categories, including, but not limited to students, scholars, researchers, and au pairs. Whether you’re engaging in academic research, pursuing an internship, or partaking in a cultural exchange, the J-1 visa provides a platform for international visitors to experience the richness of American culture while simultaneously sharing their own.

J-1 Visa Timeline

The length that a J-1 visa holder is permitted to remain in the United States depends on the specific program in which they’ve enrolled and should be specified on their DS-2019. If a J-1 visa holder wants to remain in the United States longer than their program end date, it is essential for them to speak with their sponsor as soon as possible in order to determine their eligibility.

Eligibility for J-1 Visa Extension

Eligibility for extending a J-1 visa depends on a variety of factors, including program-specific guidelines and compliance with visa regulations. Generally, a J-1 visa holder must demonstrate a compelling reason for requesting an extension, such as completing an academic program, conducting additional research, or participating in an internship extension. Additionally, a J-1 visa holder must maintain good standing with their program sponsor and ensure compliance with visa requirements throughout their stay in the U.S.

The J-1 Extension Process

Extending a J-1 visa involves a structured process governed by regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of State. Typically, the procedure entails obtaining approval from both your program sponsor and the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). If you are trying to extend your J-1 program, then you should begin the extension process as soon as you can to allow sufficient processing time and to avoid any potential disruptions to your stay in the United States.

How U.S. Immigration Attorneys Can Help

Given the intricacies of visa regulations and the importance of compliance, seeking guidance from experienced immigration attorneys is invaluable when navigating the J-1 visa extension process. A reputable law firm, such as AVA Global, that specializes in immigration law can provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that you understand your rights, obligations, and available options.

Extending your J-1 visa offers a pathway to continue your cultural program in the United States, whether you’re pursuing academic endeavors, gaining professional experience, or engaging in cultural exchange. By understanding the eligibility requirements, initiating the extension process in a timely manner, and seeking legal guidance when needed, you can navigate the complexities of visa regulations with confidence.

AVA Global understands the importance of immigration matters and is committed to providing comprehensive legal assistance to individuals navigating the intricacies of the United States immigration system. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the J-1 visa extension process, ensuring that you can make informed decisions and pursue your goals with confidence.

If you are considering extending your J-1 visa and would like professional assistance to understand the implications of this decision, you can schedule a consultation with us here. Our United States immigration attorneys are licensed to practice immigration law in all 50 states and at United States consulates and embassies across the globe!

Current as of May 8, 2024.