The United States has paused the issuance of student and exchange visas as the Trump administration enforces stricter social media scrutiny for foreign applicants.
According to an internal State Department cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and obtained by AFP, embassies and consulates have been directed to halt all new student visa appointments until further notice.
The move marks another escalation in the administration’s efforts to tighten immigration controls, particularly affecting international students.
This development follows earlier measures, including the cancellation of hundreds of student visas and an attempt to block Harvard University from enrolling foreign nationals.
While the cable suggests that the suspension could be temporary, with additional guidance expected soon, it has raised concerns over ongoing visa processing delays at U.S. missions worldwide.
Commenting on the matter, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce did not directly confirm the contents of the cable but reiterated the administration’s commitment to rigorous screening.
“We take seriously who is coming into the country,” Bruce said, stressing the importance of ensuring that applicants understand U.S. laws and do not pose a threat.
When asked whether students should expect to receive visas before the start of the fall academic session, Bruce advised applicants to continue following standard procedures but prepare for increased scrutiny.
Rubio, speaking before the Senate last week, revealed that he has revoked “thousands” of visas since taking office, invoking a rarely used legal authority that allows the secretary of state to deny entry to individuals considered contrary to U.S. foreign policy interests.
Critics say the visa crackdown has disproportionately affected students active in pro-Palestinian movements, especially amid ongoing tensions over Gaza.
Some administration officials have labeled these students as anti-Semitic—an accusation that has been strongly denied by those affected.
