On May 27, 2025, a diplomatic cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered U.S. embassies and consular posts to cease scheduling new student visa interviews for international students. This latest development comes as the State Department weighs expanding social media screening for student and exchange visitor applicants applying for F, M, or J visas. 

While appointments for these visa categories are currently paused, if a visa appointment was booked prior to the cable on May 27, the appointment may still take place. 

The State Department has indicated that further guidance will be released in the coming days regarding social media vetting for students and exchange visitors. Currently, specifics of the updated additional screening measures are unknown. 

Student and exchange visitor applicants should consult with qualified immigration counsel at Foster LLP to address any questions regarding visa interviews at U.S. missions abroad. Foster LLP will continue to monitor changes in immigration benefits and will provide additional updates via our firm’s website at fosterglobal.com.