The U.S. State Department has ordered a temporary halt on processing student and exchange visas as the Trump administration intensifies scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity, according to an internal diplomatic cable obtained by AFP.
The directive, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, instructs U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to pause all new visa appointments for students until further notice. The move comes as the administration rolls out enhanced vetting measures, including expanded social media checks, for all such applications.
Impact on International Students
The suspension could disrupt plans for thousands of prospective students, including Nigerians, who have increasingly turned to U.S. universities for education and economic opportunities. The trend, popularly known as “Japa” in Nigeria, reflects a growing wave of young professionals and students seeking better prospects abroad, particularly in the U.S., UK, and Canada.
The decision follows Rubio’s recent revocation of hundreds of visas and an administration push to restrict non-American admissions at universities like Harvard. While the cable suggests the pause may be short-lived, delays are expected due to existing backlogs in visa processing.
Security Overhaul
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce declined to confirm the cable but emphasized the administration’s commitment to rigorous vetting.
“We take very seriously the process of vetting who comes into the country,” Bruce said. “It’s a priority to ensure applicants comply with U.S. laws, pose no security risks, and contribute positively during their stay.”
When pressed on whether students could expect visas in time for fall semesters, Bruce advised applicants to follow standard procedures but prepare for additional scrutiny.
Rubio’s Crackdown on Visa Holders
The suspension aligns with Rubio’s aggressive stance on immigration enforcement. Last week, he revealed that the State Department had revoked “thousands” of visas since President Trump took office, leveraging a little-known law permitting the exclusion of foreigners deemed contrary to U.S. foreign policy interests.
Notably, the administration has targeted student activists involved in pro-Palestinian protests, accusing some of anti-Semitism—a claim vehemently denied by those affected.
Uncertainty Looms for Applicants
With no clear timeline for resuming visa processing, international students face growing anxiety over their academic futures. Analysts warn the policy could further strain U.S. universities reliant on foreign tuition revenue while reshaping global student migration trends.
The State Department has promised updated guidelines in the “coming days,” but for now, aspiring scholars must wait—and brace for heightened scrutiny.
