DUBAI: The United States has implemented sweeping changes to its visa and immigration screening process, with social media activity now playing a central role in determining eligibility.
Under new directives issued by the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State, applicants for student visas and permanent residency may be denied entry or face deportation based on their digital footprint.
These measures, already in effect, target not only new applicants but also current visa holders, particularly students, whose online behaviour is being re-examined. Authorities have clarified that even those renewing their visas could fall under the purview of the revised policies, especially individuals whose visas were issued before October 2023.
Designated groups flagged
According to official guidance, social media content that supports or sympathises with groups designated as terrorist organisations by the United States – including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthi movement in Yemen – will be flagged as a negative factor in immigration decisions. Posts interpreted as promoting anti-Semitic terrorism can lead to the denial of visa applications or the revocation of existing visas.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated unequivocally that anyone attempting to invoke the First Amendment to shield extremist views would be turned away. “You are not welcome here,” she declared, affirming the administration’s commitment to limiting the presence of foreign nationals perceived as threats to public order.
Widened screening powers
In a State Department cable dated 25 March, consular officers were instructed to intensify vetting processes by thoroughly reviewing applicants’ online profiles. This includes capturing and preserving screenshots of potentially harmful content. Importantly, officers are not required to prove an applicant's explicit support for a terrorist organisation to deny a visa. Evidence of public advocacy, hostile attitudes toward US institutions, or even association with controversial groups may suffice.
This expanded screening framework is particularly focused on student visas – namely F, M, and J categories – with the policy extending to applications submitted after 7 October 2023. That date marks the beginning of intensified conflict in Gaza, which officials say has led to heightened threats and required stricter national security measures.
Visa cancellations
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that over 300 visas have already been revoked as part of the new crackdown, including those belonging to individuals involved in pro-Palestinian activism. “Non-US citizens do not have the same rights as Americans,” Rubio stated, underscoring that visa decisions fall under the purview of immigration officials, not the judiciary.
One of the most notable cases is that of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and student leader at Columbia University, who is now facing deportation proceedings. His detention follows his involvement in demonstrations related to the Israel-Gaza conflict, though he maintains he never made any anti-Semitic statements.
Universities targeted too
Alongside these immigration changes, the Trump administration has also pulled millions of dollars in federal funding from top-tier universities accused of failing to curb anti-Semitism on campus. The move coincides with a broader campaign against pro-Palestinian activism, which officials suggest has often crossed into extremist rhetoric.
Additionally, the government has issued new guidance for fraud prevention units to retain digital evidence even if social media content is later edited or deleted. The aim is to maintain a lasting record of any online activity considered disqualifying.
Applicants advised to reassess
Prospective visa applicants are now being urged to audit their social media presence thoroughly before applying. Immigration attorneys warn that past affiliations, likes, shares, and even comments could be enough to jeopardise an application. Even unintentional interactions with flagged content or groups might raise red flags.
Legal experts also stress that individuals engaging in political protests or those with a controversial digital history should consult an immigration lawyer to evaluate potential risks under the new policy.