The Trump administration has directed US embassies globally to temporarily stop scheduling new visa interviews for international students.
The State Department has instructed embassies overseas, including in Ireland, to suspend appointment scheduling for student or exchange visitor visas—such as the F, M, and J visa categories—until further notice.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in the cable that the department intends to release updated guidance regarding social media scrutiny of student and exchange visitor applicants following a comprehensive review. He advised consular sections to cease scheduling such appointments.
This decision coincides with the Trump administration’s efforts to enhance deportations and rescind student visas as part of its aggressive immigration strategy.
Fortunately, individuals who have already navigated the visa application process this year will not be impacted.
Students who have already secured their embassy interview appointments will also be exempt from this pause.
However, those submitting applications in the coming days may face delays in the process.
Politico was the first to report this notice, highlighting that all international students applying to study in the United States will be subjected to intensified social media vetting.
The administration had previously enforced some social media screening measures, primarily targeting returning students who might have taken part in pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Last week, the Department of Foreign Affairs updated its travel guidance for Irish citizens traveling to the US, cautioning about “serious consequences” for non-compliance with border officials or for providing false information.
Officials indicated that failing to follow immigration laws could result in denial of entry at the border, detention, and possible departure from the US.
Mr. Trump’s detractors have labeled this initiative as an infringement on free speech rights protected under the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
