US to screen visa applicants’ social media for anti-Israel, anti-US content

The US State Department has issued new instructions to overseas officials to screen the social media accounts of certain student and exchange visitor visa applicants, in a move aimed at preventing critics of the US and Israel from entering the country, according to media reports.

On March 25, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sent a 1,700-word cable titled "Action Request: Enhanced Screening and Social Media Vetting for Visa Applicants," outlining new procedures for consular officers abroad when reviewing visa applications.

This enhanced vetting specifically targets applicants suspected of having terrorist ties, those who held a student or exchange visitor visa between October 7, 2023, and August 31, 2024, and those whose visas were terminated after October 7, 2023.

The new measures come amid concerns over pro-Palestinian protests and advocacy, with sources noting that social media checks will focus on individuals linked to such demonstrations, particularly those who participated in protests since October 2023.

The screening process mandates that foreign service officers address any derogatory information suggesting applicants may be involved in or sympathize with terrorism-related activities.

The cable directs officers to investigate any public approval or advocacy for terrorism, including behaviors indicating hostility toward US citizens or culture, or support for foreign terrorist organizations.

While these guidelines are broad, they provide consular officers with the discretion to assess visa applicants' credibility and intent based on their online activity.

The State Department employee confirmed that the focus is on individuals engaged in activities counter to US national interests, such as supporting or sympathizing with terrorist organizations. Rubio, who has overseen the revocation of hundreds of visas since January, reiterated his stance on removing individuals who violate the terms of their visas, particularly those involved in activities harmful to US foreign policy.