US Starts Student Visa Process; Hyderabad Experts Share Tips

• US begins student visa processing with a focus on social media checks.
• Hyderabad consultancies urge students to avoid controversial posts.
• Refusal to share public social media may lead to visa rejection.

The US State Department has initiated the processing of applications for student visas. Subsequently, consulting firms in Hyderabad have guided students seeking US visas.

Although the US started processing, it required applicants to provide access to their public social media accounts for examination. The US stopped scheduling new visa interviews for international students wishing to study in the country last month.

The choice was made to get ready for increased examination of applicants' social media behavior. In light of this, numerous consultancies in Hyderabad and other cities have begun counseling students who wish to study abroad, including the US.

The Trump administration had increased scrutiny of all visa applicants by implementing reviews of their social media profiles. The policy persisted throughout the administration of former President Joe Biden.

In a conversation with Siasat.com under the premise of anonymity, multiple overseas education consultancies indicated that they have begun advising students to be more mindful of their online activities.

“We are urging them not to post or comment on content on social media that is not aligned with US government policy, especially regarding Palestine and Iran,” a study abroad counselor said.

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Simultaneously, US officials indicated they would assess social media posts and actions to look for sentiments against the US government. They will also verify if content shared on social media opposes American individuals, institutions, culture, or foundational values.

Additionally, they announced that applications from individuals who decline to make their social media accounts public will be denied.

Due to the increased scrutiny, Hyderabad consultancies began advising US visa applicants on their online behavior, and students have started avoiding sharing opinions on social media.