Student visas resume in US with new social media screening rule

(Web Desk): The United States has lifted the visa ban on foreign students, according to American media reports.

The US State Department announced that the previously suspended process for student visas is being resumed. However, all applicants will now be required to grant access to their social media accounts for government review.

The department further stated that officials will examine all social media posts of student applicants. Any posts deemed to be against the United States, its government, culture, institutions, or core values may be used as grounds for visa decisions.

According to the State Department, the directive suspending student visa processing issued in May has now been revoked. However, new applicants must make their social media accounts public. Failure to comply could result in the denial of their review request.

US officials explained that the Trump administration had temporarily halted scheduling new visa interviews for foreign students wishing to study in the US last month, while also preparing to intensify social media activity screening.