New Screening Measures for J-1 Visa Holders: Social Media Activity Under Review

This includes the J-1 visa. According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, J-1 exchange visa holders are on the Trump administration’s list of student and exchange visitor visa categories of recipients who are now subject to increased screening of their activities. This new procedure states that, “effective immediately, consular officers must refer new or returning student and exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa applicants to the Fraud Prevention Unit (FPU) for a mandatory social media check if they meet certain criteria:

• An applicant who the officer has reason to believe has openly advocated for a designated foreign terrorist organization.
• An applicant who was previously in the United States in F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa status between October 7, 2023, and August 31, 2024.
• An applicant whose previous SEVIS [Student and Exchange Visitor Information System] record was terminated between October 7, 2023, and the present.”

Please note that these criteria may be interpreted broadly under this administration; there have been recently reported claims of perceived hostility towards the United States or criticism of the current administration, of the President, or of U.S. foreign policy resulting in detainment and removal from the United States without necessarily being accused or convicted of any crime. As a student visa holder in the United States, it is crucial to exercise caution on social media platforms.

As a J-1 exchange visitor, always carry 

• your identification, visa stamp, passport, F-1 and J-1 students and scholars
• Ensure that your most recent I-20 or DS-2019 has a timely endorsement for travel.
• Carry current proof of enrollment, such as a current transcript or a letter from the University.
• If currently working on CPT or OPT, carry proof of employment, such as two recent pay statements or a recently signed employment confirmation letter from your employer.

Be advised that the penalties for legal noncitizen residents in the U.S. failing to present documentation are becoming steeper under the Trump administration.