Trump administration lifts ban on foreign student visas 

The Trump administration has officially lifted the restrictions previously imposed on foreign student visas, resuming the visa issuance process that had been suspended in May, according to a statement released by the US Department of State.

However, the resumption comes with strict new conditions. The department has made it mandatory for student visa applicants to grant US authorities access to their social media accounts and the content within. Students who refuse access will have their visa applications denied outright, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Thursday.

The new policy applies to both student and exchange visitor visa categories, and all applications will undergo enhanced screening under the updated guidelines.

The State Department clarified that this step is part of broader national security measures aimed at ensuring transparency and monitoring potential risks.

The decision to lift the ban has been welcomed by many international students, but the mandatory social media disclosure requirement has triggered concerns over privacy rights and digital surveillance.